doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com SxS muzzleloader barrel under rib

Is anyone aware of any muzzleloader sxs shotguns that only had about 6" of under rid from the muzzle back,and only one ramrod pipe? This sxs I'm looking at purchasing is like that.There are no signs of a rib running the entire length of the barrels.The top rib is in perfect condition and is the full length of barrels.The barrels do ring like a bell though.Any thoughts would be appreciated,thanks.Also the manufacturer is unknown.And I do not know if there are any stampings.The barrels are marked Fine Twist Steel on top rib.It has back action percussion locks.Barrels are 32".

I've never saw one.

Can't say I've ever seen one like that. How long are the barrels?

32", according to o.p.

SRH

32" as posted.

If there is no bottom rib it may be missing, you should carefully examine for any indications of a rib solder or markings indicating one had been there.

My experience with muzzle loader double barrels (2) had bottom ribs

It is possible it was made without a bottom rib, but if so there should be at minim significant reinforcements at the mid point and muzzles on barrels that long.

My gut is something is amiss

Yeah, I missed that first time, duh!.
As mentioned, I would very carefully inspect it as there could very well be an issue. I have about a half dozen antique muzzleloading shotguns, and have seen several more, and all had full length bottom ribs. But, there are thousands I haven't seen so who knows.
Just proceed with caution. If you have a nagging suspicion that keeps telling you in the back of your mind that something may be amiss, I would pass unless maybe it is a very reasonable price.