Sidelock, Boxlock And Trigger Plate - Shotgun Actions

Published on April 21, 2020
Duration: 32:24

This guide provides an expert overview of three primary shotgun action types: sidelock, boxlock, and trigger plate. It details their mechanical differences, historical context, and practical implications for performance and maintenance, drawing on the insights of an experienced firearms instructor. Understanding these actions is crucial for gunsmithing, repair, and appreciating shotgun design.

Quick Summary

Shotgun actions are categorized into sidelock, boxlock, and trigger plate types. Sidelocks offer external access for gunsmithing, boxlocks provide robust and affordable designs, and trigger plate actions are found in modern over-and-unders, often with advanced features like detachable trigger groups.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Shotgun Actions
  2. 00:25Sidelock History and Mechanics
  3. 02:21The Swivel Mechanism
  4. 03:13Sidelock Components: Bridle and Sears
  5. 05:13Cocking and Accessibility
  6. 06:19Inletting and Structural Integrity
  7. 09:03Boxlock Actions (Anson & Deeley)
  8. 12:13Boxlock Components and Operation
  9. 14:05Advantages of the Boxlock
  10. 19:46Trigger Plate Actions
  11. 24:23Beretta Trigger Plate Design
  12. 26:22Trigger Plate Benefits
  13. 30:58Summary and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between sidelock, boxlock, and trigger plate shotgun actions?

Sidelock actions have mechanisms on external side plates for easy access. Boxlocks house mechanisms internally within the receiver, known for robustness. Trigger plate actions mount mechanisms on the bottom plate, common in modern over-and-unders, often allowing for detachable trigger groups.

Which shotgun action type is generally considered more robust and affordable?

The boxlock action, particularly designs based on the Anson & Deeley patent, is generally considered more robust and easier to manufacture, leading to greater affordability compared to sidelock actions.

How does the 'inletting' process affect shotgun stock integrity?

Inletting involves fitting metal components into the wooden stock. Sidelock actions may require more wood removal than boxlocks, potentially compromising stock strength, especially in over-and-under designs.

What are the advantages of trigger plate actions in modern shotguns?

Trigger plate actions, common in modern over-and-unders, can allow for better trigger pulls and often feature detachable trigger groups for easier field maintenance and customization.

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