Folks,

I have seen comments from double rifle builders that the shotgun action had to be adapted for double rifle use by extending the length, width and depth of the water table in order to deal with the increased pressure of the double rifle cartridge.

I have seen a "formula" for gun weight - ....% barrels, ......% action......, ...... % butt stock.

But is there a formula for water table dimensions ???

I can see how increasing the depth of the bar leaves more strength in that area. I have seen reference to the strength of Webley "screw grip"(?) and Winchester Model 21 actions due to their long bars/water tables and I have seen reference to broadening the bar at the breech end in order to strengthen the action for double rifle use..............leaves more material in the "elbow" between the breech face and the bar where the greatest flexing will take place - bolsters serve the same purpose.

Barrel diameter - at the breech - will be determined by pressure and desired gun weight, "weight between the hands" etc (good way to increase overall gun weight without destroying handling) and that will give you breech face dimensions. But how does this equate to water table dimensions ???

I'm looking forward to the input of you gunmaker and like minded folk.