Many original "percussion" side by sides, 12's, 14's, 16's and 20's have very good breeches, while the barrels might have deep dents or rust-through areas.

Chopping these barrels off at 10" to 14" will leave a good set of tubes, already joined and breeched, along with a useable double barreled tang. Re-solder (or JB) filling the ends of the ribs and replacing the bead leaves a good basis for making a Howdah pistol - completely legal - here.

A set of back-action or side locks are available from Track, along with triggers, trigger plate, gaurd, etc.

It's a simple build for anyone used to using chisels and a draw knife.