My last several deer, I've taken at ranges under 20 yards. A couple of years ago, I could have bayoneted a large 8-point. So, I decided this year I did not need the accuracy and range of my normal deer rifle, a original 1861 Colt Special Musket, and am going with my antique Robert Chaplain (mfg. 1850's) SxS 13 gauge, with "London Fine Twyst" barrels instead. A trip to the range yielded the results pictured. Actually quite surprised by the accuracy of the right barrel, good group (for a smooth bore) and directly to point of aim at 50 yards. The left wasn't quite as good, and impacted about 6" left of the right barrel. However that is still "Minute of Deer" at my max distance of 25 yards. Oddly, using identical loads, 80 grains 2F Swiss with a .690 PRB, the left barrel was consistently 100 fps slower than the right. Bore diameter is only .003 difference, and I was using a thick patch, so I cannot explain the discrepancy. I will only use the left barrel at close range to finish off a wounded deer. However, I think that big lead ball, whether at 920 or 1000 feet per second, will be enough for a 10 to 20 yard shot.
I use this gun for all my shotgun applications, much preferring it to my Pedersoli SxS's. They are nice enough, but don't have the "Cool Factor" of the original. Years ago, a gunsmith, told me the barrels were "Dead", and I was going to "Blow myself up using that Damascus Twist!". Still got all my eyes and fingers after thousands of clay targets and such. I am too big a sissy to shoot cute bunnies and doves anymore.
I use this gun for all my shotgun applications, much preferring it to my Pedersoli SxS's. They are nice enough, but don't have the "Cool Factor" of the original. Years ago, a gunsmith, told me the barrels were "Dead", and I was going to "Blow myself up using that Damascus Twist!". Still got all my eyes and fingers after thousands of clay targets and such. I am too big a sissy to shoot cute bunnies and doves anymore.
