Why did it bite her?

[ctwo]

They had a break barrel 12ga with the release lever on top center. Cut down stock.

I think the recoil pushed that lever into the web between thumb and index finger. Guy says the lever automatically opens to eject the shell, but that's not what I would expect. So they think the lever opened and closed on her skin.

Tell me a break barrel will open when fired...

 

[OaklandF4i]

In my decades of shooting break action shotguns, I’ve never been bitten by the top lever which opens the action. Unlike some 1911s, high powers, or other hammer action semi auto pistols that may bite the web between thumb and index finger. Somewhat common on some pistols in my experience.

That said, the top lever wouldn’t open and close to bite the hand either. The lever doesn’t move that easily from the recoil motion at all, it takes lateral force perpendicular to the shotgun. Never seen a top lever open unintentionally either.

It is not an automatic function after firing either of the barrels. Some models do eject shells, vs just extract them, after applying force to the top lever and opening the action.

Loose trigger hand grip, in combination with a shortened pistol group, or improperly mounted, and the hand slid forward for the bite would be my guess. The top lever didn’t move, or shouldn’t have, isn’t designed to.

I shot 9-10k shells last year, almost exclusively with break action shotguns. Not a pro, but have some experience.

 

[ctwo]

I don't recall if my sxs is a Stoeger.



Hers was cut down to the minimum single.

 

[OaklandF4i]

Nice! I’ve got an old Stevens side by side from the late 60’s, probably haven’t fired it since the early 80’s.

I think you are spot on, it just slid back in her hand with the recoil to bite. Really doubt the top lever moved, even with the bite. Looks like a great shotgun to clear a room.

I’ve got a number of newer break action over unders with ejectors. Spits the used shells out upon opening…. but find them annoying on the range shooting clays and disable them to work as extractors.

Probably have more shotguns than I “need,” but same could be said of pistols, rifles, and what not too. Always a use to be found to justify one or another, even if it’s just to tinker and admire.

Earlier this year I over paid for a pristine 1992 Remington 12gauge 870 Wingmaster Magnum that came with the original case, box, manual, paperwork etc, and probably less than a box of shells through it. Pre bankruptcy hedge fund acquisition that eventually killed Remington. I’m working on a beautiful Fleur-de-lis gun stock for it, adding the Graco adjustable comb and recoil pad hardware. There will be a red white and blue Kick-Eez pad too.

Completely senseless project…. But fun.

A handful of my primary shotguns I had out a couple weeks back after cleaning.