treblig1958, I have had several 'falling in ditches' guns, all Blanch's of course. My longest standing FID is a 1890's 28" x 12b sleeved Blanch Back action SLE that was the 2nd Blanch I ever bought, at Sothebys when they were still doing guns. It had a broken front lump that was repaired by Don Custerson and reproofed. However, I have never shot it well, too low in the comb. Today, I would use a 12b Blanch BLE of considerably less years, 30" and stock bent and extended to my needs. Have both an ejector and extractor which I shoot reasonably well, they have lovely engraving for those quiet, reflective moments and owe me nothing.