Unintentional perk of being from a poor rural area.

[bubba.50]

Every time I look at what would be a nice looking gun if it warn't for the 1/2 dozen scope mount holes drilled in the barrel I just cringe. At the same time, I know in my heart of hearts that back in the day when everything had to be bigger & badder and shoot farther & faster that if there had been a decent gunsmith in the area, every one of my guns would'a had a Tasco 3x9x40 World Class(poor boy's Leupold) on it. Funny how life looks out for ya sometimes, ain't it?

 

[Captjoel]

The last used scoped muzzle loader I bought had the mount holes drilled right through into the bore. I no longer even look at them anymore regardless of what nice gun may lie underneath.

 

[ppg1949]

I’m with you. Now if I see holes drilled in the flats, I leave it. About 20 years ago I picked up a 20ga barrel for a Renegade for $10. The top was drilled and the tenon was mounted with screws not dovetailed. Years later I discovered the tenon screws were both drilled into the barrel. Live and learn.

 

[vintovka]

As many already know drilling ML is best left to those with proper equipment and skill. Precise pattern layout is essential. Best done with a mill (or mill/drill) machine with precise depth control and checked with specialized dial caliper depth gauge every step of the way. Each hole in drilled and tapped in same set up without moving work. Cannot tell you times have been brought barrels drilled thru, off center, swiss cheesed or even attempts at plugs. Why you should aways inspect bores carefully and have alarm bells when non factory holes or "anomalies" are seen on barrels. IMHO D&T's have no place on ML unless for very specific uses.

 

[Horse]

Whats a scope?

 

[1950DAVE]

Somethin else to get tangled in briars when traipsing thru the woods. I understand that they were designed to teach patience to ancy hunters.