1866 Hinge block not silver soldered to barrel

[Billy-Mac]

The hinge block of my 1866 trapdoor is not silver soldered to barrel. I removed the two screws holding it to the barrel and it came right off. Can I shoot the gun with just the screws holding it to the barrel or should I have it soldered back on?

[Dick Hosmer]

The clever geometry of the Allin action (bearing point of cam being above bore centerline, combined with longitudinal enlargement of the hinge pin hole in the block) assures that no real force is carried by the strap - it really is just there to provide a loose pivot point. That said, the arm was designed for severe service and the solder was kinda like having a belt and suspenders. Given more modest use today, the screws should suffice, but, if it makes you feel better, by all means solder it.

[Billy-Mac]

thanks I'll shot it very carefully with light loads .

[carlsr]

thanks I'll shot it very carefully with light loads .

You should be fine.
I have an 1865 1st Allin which also did not have the hinge strap soldered on. That model only has one screw holding the hinge on and I can say it fired wonderfully with no issues.
I did however had it soldered on at a later date.