The barrel is thinner than older trapdoor 45/70's but as I was told by
a gunsmith when I asked him that same question......Today's
metal technology is so much better than it was only 50 years ago, that
the barrels don't have to be as thick, as for accuracy, my 1895CB is
more accurate in my hands than shooting an 18 inch guide gun. Makes
sense.....as it is 8 inches longer. Yes, You certainly can shoot the same
loads out of the cowboy as you can the guide gun. I guess I should
say to still use caution and work up loads in each individual gun.