I love hunting with Hammerguns !! On most of mine the gun can be left open with both hammers cocked (it is much safer that way as well). Then you simply close the gun and shoot. Hammerguns are the coolest of the Double Rifles. My advise BUY IT you'll enjoy it more than you think !!! I've killed Elephant with the 450-400 3 1/2 But like with all Doubles PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE.