I recently ran across the term "Snapping Block". (See photo) I know what snap caps are but just what is a snapping block? I've searched the web for a definition but I can't find one.

Thanks,
-Bob F.



Image from:
http://www.mcdonaldsgunshop.com/rifles/rigbydouble.htm

I believe a snapping block is a bit or horn which is pressed against the firing pins with the action open, allowing you to pull the triggers, releasing the springs for storage. I've seen such a gizmo in Galazan's shotgun catalog and that's how they've described it.

By the way, several of us Houston posters have gotten together several times to shoot and swap lies. We'll let you know when we get together next. Bob

bobc,

Your explanation makes sense. After reading your reply, I did a little more searching on the web. I did manage to find one reference to "snapping blocks". Here's what it said:

"More than likely, your favorite double cocks on opening. Which leads to the further discovery that if you store your gun disassembled, you've cocked it when you opened the action to take it apart. To deal with this dilemma the English invented the Snapping Block, originally made of horn and shaped so that you could comfortably hold it against the face of the breech with the palm of one hand while you snapped the triggers with the other. My friend Jack Rowe, America's oldest living English gunsmith, said he hadn't seen one in years. When I asked him what he uses instead, he said 'you could use a bit of any hardwood, but I just hold the bloody thing against the edge of my workbench.'"

From:
http://www.billhanusbirdguns.com/goodstuff04.html

quote:

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By the way, several of us Houston posters have gotten together several times to shoot and swap lies. We'll let you know when we get together next.

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I'd enjoy that. Thanks!

-Bob F.

[ 09-18-2002, 00:33: Message edited by: BFaucett ]