The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post

K80Geoff · June 23, 1999, 07:26 PM

Damascus Barrels are made from strips of steel pounded together over a mandrell.
They have a unique pattern over the whole barrel. They were very popular in blackpowder days because of the attractive designs that were formed during the process. They tend to blow apart using modern powders however. If the barrel has any type of pattern to it it may be a damascus and should be checked by a competent gunsmith before firing. They were so desirable in the last century that many fluid steel barrels were engraved with Damascus patterns!

Try one of the shotgun websites dealing with double guns, they will have pictures of damascus barrels. One of these sites may have an old gun that might interest you. A good site for old doubles is:

www.gunshop.com

Lots of links to other sites.

[This message has been edited by K80Geoff (edited June 23, 1999).]

June 23, 1999, 07:26 PM	#3
K80Geoff Senior Member Join Date: December 20, 1998 Location: NE Pennsylvania Posts: 3,639	Damascus Barrels are made from strips of steel pounded together over a mandrell. They have a unique pattern over the whole barrel. They were very popular in blackpowder days because of the attractive designs that were formed during the process. They tend to blow apart using modern powders however. If the barrel has any type of pattern to it it may be a damascus and should be checked by a competent gunsmith before firing. They were so desirable in the last century that many fluid steel barrels were engraved with Damascus patterns! Try one of the shotgun websites dealing with double guns, they will have pictures of damascus barrels. One of these sites may have an old gun that might interest you. A good site for old doubles is: www.gunshop.com Lots of links to other sites. [This message has been edited by K80Geoff (edited June 23, 1999).]