1889 Double Barrel

[bbbeebop]

New to this forum and not a real collector although I have 8 long rifles and shotguns. I believe I just acquired an 1889 Double Barrel, Ser # 71724 Model 3, It's not in great shape, some nicks on the stock and maybe some paint on the barrel from storage. Other than that it looks original to me. Can anyone tell me what year it was made and should I have it restored or leave it in it's present condition? I will take some pictures and post them later.

[Researcher]

According to the serial number chronology produced by the late Charles Semmer, and published in his book Remington Double Shotguns, a Model 1889 with serial number 71724 would be of 1895 vintage. We really need to see some pictures before we can tell you much else.

[bbbeebop]

http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/Bbbee ... ps54abb424
Pictures of 1889 double barrel

[Researcher]

When I clicked on your link I get an error message from Photobucket that says the page doesn't exist.

[bbbeebop]

[URL=http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/ ... .jpg[/img][/url]
Try this one

[bbbeebop]

Trying to load a link to the Album I have on Photobucket. So far only can do it one picture at a time. I'll keep trying!

[bbbeebop]

Trying again I hope this works!
http://s1156.photobucket.com/user/Bbbeebop/library/

[admin]

You can drop them here, just hit the browse and then add the file, I *believe* I have a 3 picture limit post but there's not limit on posting...

[bbbeebop]

Thank you, Yes the link directly above your post works great. All the pictures I took of this 1889 Double Barrel are there!

[dieNusse1]

The '89 was offered in three grades. #1 (cheapest) had decarbonized steel barrels, #2 (better) had twist steel barrels and #3 (best) had damascus steel barrels. Whereas grades 1 - 3 had plain color case hardened metal (action body etc.), grades 4 and higher were special order and would have various levels of engraving, better wood and checkering etc.

The grade is stamped on the water table next to the S/N and on the barrels just ahead of the locking lugs.

As far as restoration I cannot determine what you have for starting material. Be prepared to spend $$$. If you are interested -- there are several people I've worked with to properly restore the metal color case harden finish. I'd be happy to supply names offline. i've always refinished my own damascus and twist steel barrels -- a long process.