this post was submitted on 17 Dec 2025
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No Stupid Questions
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Only time I've ever encountered the idea done for ostensibly practical purposes is what I've seen described as a "stagecoach gun", where it's a double-barrel that's been sawed off. Portability is probably part of it, but I do think the bigger spread is also a desired characteristic in that context. I can see a case where a stagecoach driver back in the day might want that intimidation factor of "this probably isn't going to miss you if I discharge these two barrels in the general direction of your horse." Ultimately I'm not sure though.
The greater spread is only at longer distances, in close quarters it's negligible unless the barrel is cut all the way back to the tip of the cartridge.
More 'portability' also means less likely to snag in the reins/rigging when you're aiming from a stage coach, and much less barrel for a scofflaw to grab onto if they attempt to wrest it from you.
At very close range, sure, the spread is negligible. You don't have to get very far at all before it becomes pronounced though.