Is one lock bolt sufficient?

[RMann]

I'm planning on building a southern mountain rifle, loosely based on the Jos. Bogle rifle.  I've carefully compared side plate styles from the forum's archives on southern, iron mounted guns, and see quite a few variations, including one or two lockbolts.  I'm using a 42"  A wt. barrel, with a late Ketland lock.  I expect to use 2 bolts, similar to Bogle's, but if I choose to use just 1, is that functionally just as good?

[RMann]

Sorry, I goofed up the title to this thread, as I had 2 questions to ask....

[Dennis Glazener]

I'm planning on building a southern mountain rifle, loosely based on the Jos. Bogle rifle.  I've carefully compared side plate styles from the forum's archives on southern, iron mounted guns, and see quite a few variations, including one or two lockbolts.  I'm using a 42"  A wt. barrel, with a late Ketland lock.  I expect to use 2 bolts, similar to Bogle's, but if I choose to use just 1, is that functionally just as good?

Rifle' as early as the Bogle rifle should have 2 lock bolts.

Late flintlocks and percussion rifles had both 1 and 2 lock bolts. I have built quite a few late flint rifles using 1 lock bolt and they all worked fine. I have only built 1 percussion with 1 lock bolt but it to worked fine.

In my opinion, others might disagree, one lock bolt is as functionally good as two assuming it is properly installed.

Dennis

[rsells]

I have made several SMR rifles using only one screw without any issues.  I have 4 original examples of SMR that used one screw, and I have two examples of SMR rifles that used two.  It all depends on which rifle that is inspiring me to build a rifle to determine which design to use.  If I am not trying to duplicate a specific rifle, it depends upon how I feel on the day I install the side lock screw or screws.  Either one or two side lock screws is period correct.
                                                                                            Roger Sells

[Bill Raby]

One lock bolt works just fine. But you have to do a god job inletting the lock.

[RMann]

Thanks guys for passing on your thoughts and understanding.  I will have more questions coming...  I'm slowly getting educated though this more than helpful forum.   RM

[Daryl]

My SMR has only one lock screw. It does not need 2.

[oldtravler61]

  Rmann like other's have stated. One lock bult is sufficient. That is if your inletting skills are proficient. But on the flip side. I have taken a few antique guns a part. They looked like an angry beaver did the work. But they are still working fine after 150 + year's. But I still prefer two.   Oldtravler