Ted this forum is about double guns...not the comparison of the durablity of a cheaply made pump to a fine English gun.
I agree for a boat paddle I'd choose the pump.
I shoot twice weekly most of the time...about 4 boxes or more each time I shoot. In the course of a year that adds up to quite a few rounds through old English guns.
I primarily shoot pre 1900 side locked hammer guns. I do shoot one hammerless side lock (1915).
I haven't needed a Gunsmith as of yet...except to bend a stock.
I still believe there are more Gunsmiths earning a "living" working on cheap pumps, autos and pistols than those that specialize in working on Fine English doubles.
Ps..I have a SBE Bennelli not a cheap pump should I need a boat paddle.
