Empirevr, IMO, there is diffinetly an difference in steel used today and that used in the late 19th century! And I believe the steel of today is the best that has ever been used in firearms. That said, I don't think, as long as the regulating loads are used exclusively, there is any worry about the longivity of the old rifles, as long thay are cared for properly also.

I do think that some of barrel makeing process' make better barrels than many of the old ways of makeing barrels. The steel in the action bodies, and that used in the enternal parts wears far better, with less care, than the old ones. That only goes to the strength of material, but the way, and percision with which these parts are made, and fitted, is what will give you the benefite of that extra wear factor.

There are many bargains out there today, in some of the off the shelf double rifles, and at least one made to fit rifle, that are great values for money spent. That doesn't mean they as good as the real high dollar names out there, but for field use, will do anything any double rifle will do,but just have some rough edges. If you can look past that, the Off the Shelf rifles will serve you well!