I can't think of any specific examples beyond the aforementioned S&W Model 1 (and various unlicensed knockoffs of same, the 1860s having been the golden age of unlicensed firearms knockoffs in the United States), but at some point in the mid-1800s, you can be pretty sure that someone somewhere tried whatever you're thinking of. :)

--G.
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Benjamin D. Hutchins, Co-Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & Forum Mod
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