Hi all
This is my first post for help here on castboolits so if I’ve missed a previous thread on this subject please be kind enough to direct me there, I just don’t know the site well enough to have found it alone. Thanks
My situation is that I’m about to take receipt of a cupboard queen. A virtually unused original 1903 1895 Marlin in 40-82 which according to the proof marks is one of the earlier examples proofed for nitro powders.
The bore is in great condition if a little greyed with very strong rifling and no visual defects I could see with the borescope.
Some of you may be of the opinion that I should preserve it as it is and I respect your right to hold that view.
I am one of those who admire what our pioneering forefathers achieved with metallurgy and cartridge development during that transition period in firearms development to bring us the fabulous tools we enjoy today.
I like to honour their work by using their works with care and respect and with the aim of maintaining it’s usefulness at a tool not an artefact.
Have any of you guys taken a similar condition antique firearm back to a good shooting condition?
When I’ve jumped through the legal hoops (I live in the UK) I eventually intend to work up some useful loads for the rifle with the eventual aim of using it as a highdays and holidays special event woodland stalker to bring her back to her original mission of food getter.
I have yet to slug the bore so can’t give any details there but will do as soon as she arrives, I shoot a lot of cast bullets in my 444 1895, 357 1894 and Old Army, but nothing in .40 cal.
Would anyone recommend to gas check or not to bring the bore back to life in the re break in period, this is new ground to me.
Thanks for any help