It's not a matter of strength but one of production. It is easier and less time consuming to do through lumps than do hidden. Especially considering the older methods of using some form of shaper/broach, file, and chisel. It's not easy doing a blind hole...

That being said that method has been used in modern times. I recall a gunmakers facebook page with pictures of a build. He used hand tools and gauges/templates.

Last edited by gunmaker; 07/28/14 10:31 PM.
A.M. Little Bespoke Gunmakers LLC.
Mineola, TX
Michael08TDK@yahoo.com
682-554-0044