How to Inspect a Side-by-Side Shotgun for Loose Rib

A loose rib on a side-by-side shotgun is easy to spot if you know how to look. In this GunTec video Larry Potterfield, Founder and CEO of MidwayUSA, explains the process for inspecting the barrels of a double barrel shotgun when looking for a loose rib. Most loose ribs can be identified using a simple inspection process, as many loose ribs are visible to the naked eye. A surefire way however is to hold the barrels by the hook and lightly tap them using a brass hammer. If this rib joint is solid the barrels will make a nice ping sound, while barrels with a loose rib will produce a low, thud noise. This process is quick and easy, potentially saving you from having to make a costly repair after buying a used double.