In comparing old doubles to new doubles, perhaps we should also consider bolt guns. Is a newly-made M98 (by GMA) better than one made in 1905? I would say yes, but only if it is to be used for a high pressure cartridge. Is a Charles Daly Mauser made today any stronger than a 1914 Enfield action? Probably not, as the Enfield has been shown to stand up to 120,000 psi.

So would that mean that old doubles are just as strong as new ones? I would say probably not, as hard modern steel is more resistant to stretch and wear than older, softer steel. Every once in a while a vintage British double goes haywire, and it costs lots of money to fix. That tends to make guys very cautious.