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OK lets agree theres not a lot of practical "need" for a Howdah pistol anymore; but I think theres a few of us that want one. A while back I bought one of the muzzleloaders (20ga X 20ga). I even bought the holster for it, hoping at sometime I might have a reason to carry it! The muzzleloader is nice; but it leaves me wanting more from it. I think it may be that the grip doesnt quite look "right" and the grip cap looks like an after thought. I just saw that they make a kit version, so Im thinking about some personal upgrades, starting with stippeling and a new grip cap.

Ive been looking at the 410/45LC Howdahs as a cartridge option. Sadly 410 isnt exactly a powerhouse and I doubt whether the 45LC can be loaded into the 454 Casull range; but that brings me back to where/how Id need it to be a stopper. The original Ithaca Auto/Burglars that the Pedersoli is based on, are a handfull to shoot in 12ga and not particularly comfortable to open because the hammerless design and short barrels means less leverage to open/cock. Im not sure if Ithaca ever made a 20ga version; but that seems like it might have been a better option, for self defense from both 4 and 2 legged animals. Of course the NFA issue remains with the original Ithaca.

Today i discovered that Pedersoli makes a "vintage" model of the 45/410 Howdah. The "vintage" looks like the Ithaca except that it has hammers. With hammers theres no extra cocking effort to open the gun. Being in 45LC means no NFA issues (especially when traveling); but Im still back to where/how do I use it to make the $1400.00 cost seem somewhat justifiable?

Im telling myself it would be great to have while hunting Wild Boar for the inevitable charging beast? Perhaps for Bear hunting when going to check on a downed animal? Maybe for when camping in Bear country to make those late night latrine runs a bit easier that toting a rifle? Do those excuses sounds as lame as I think they do?

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If it's not custom, it's just borrowed

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