Actually it gains strength with decorative side plates. When the stock is fitted with real side locks, a great deal of wood is removed for the moveing parts of the lock, so the stock in that area is honeycomed with empty air pockets. The decrative side plates, however, only the wood necessary to inlet the plate is removed. Then one hole drilled though for the bolt that holds the "STEEL" plates against the wood, like a vice, with no hollow places under it. The only wood removed is replaced by solid steel with the false side plates.

I too like the looks of a finely made boxlock double, but the side plates are a nice touch as well, and not only enhances the box loxk, but IMO, makes the boxlock even stronger yet!