When you mention a “bar-in-wood” shotgun, you’re referring to a particular style of shotgun design where the action body (the metal frame/receiver) is enclosed within the wooden stock, rather than sitting fully exposed as in more modern guns. This was most common in 19th-century British and Continental sporting guns. In a bar-in-wood gun, this bar is covered with wood so the stock and action appear more seamless. Only the hammers, triggers, and fences are exposed.

The Mechanics of a Wood Shotgun Bar

A wood shotgun bar is a long, cylindrical metal tube that houses the barrel and other essential parts of a shotgun. It serves as a guide for the shotgun shell to travel through during firing, directing the shot towards the target. The wood material used for the bar provides stability and support for the barrel, helping to absorb recoil and maintain accuracy.

bar wood 1

Understanding the Inner Workings

Inside a wood shotgun bar, there are various components that work together to ensure the smooth functioning of the shotgun. These include the chamber, where the shotgun shell is loaded, the bore, which is the inner surface of the barrel that guides the shot, and the choke, which helps control the spread of the shot. The wood material of the bar also helps to dampen vibrations and reduce noise during firing.

Function

  1. Locks & Hammers – The lock mechanisms (usually bar-action sidelocks) are fitted into the wood around the bar. The hammers are external and cocked by hand.

  2. Barrels & Action Joint – The barrels hinge on the bar, just as in a normal break-action shotgun. The lumps (locking bites under the barrels) engage with the bar to secure the barrels when closed.

  3. Triggering & Firing – Pulling the trigger releases the hammer, which strikes the percussion cap (on muzzleloaders) or the firing pin (on breechloaders).

  4. Wood Enclosure – The action is fully bedded into the stock wood, which gives the shotgun a smooth, flowing look — almost like the barrels grow directly out of the wood.

bar wood 2

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Wood Shotgun Bar

Using a wood shotgun bar involves loading the shotgun shell into the chamber, making sure it is securely in place. Next, aim the shotgun towards the target and pull the trigger to fire the shot. The wood bar helps to absorb recoil and maintain stability, allowing for accurate and precise shooting. After firing, remember to safely unload the shotgun and clean the wood bar to ensure its longevity and performance.

Wood shotgun bars play a crucial role in the functionality and performance of a shotgun. Understanding how they work and knowing how to use them properly can enhance the shooting experience for gun enthusiasts. With their classic design and reliable mechanics, wood shotgun bars are a timeless choice for shooters looking for quality and precision.

In short, a bar-in-wood shotgun works like any other hammer break-action of its era, but with its action body fully enclosed in the stock wood for a sleek, elegant profile. It was more of a stylistic and artisanal experiment than a practical long-term design.

# # #