Decarbonized Barrells

[Researcher]

That may be the question of the century!! What, if anything, is the difference between the Decarbonized Steel barrels found on the lowest grade Remington hammer guns, and the Remington Steel barrels found on the lowest grade Remington hammerless guns? And a follow on, is there a difference in the Decarbonized Steel on a Model 1889 from the first year, and those made in 1908?

[paul harm]

My 1873 has decarbonized barrels and I've shot low pressure nitro loads in it for years. I've always felt the barrels don't know what's being shot in them, just how much pressure. Black power loads were in the 7 to 8000psi range, so nitro loads in the 5 to 6000psi range would be safe. Same for all my damascus guns which are shot [ one or the other ] three times a week. My 1873 grade 4 is being completely restored and should be ready in a month. Can't wait to get it. Thanks for the info on numbers on the water table - never knew that. Paul

[paul harm]

Al, welcome to the world of Remington SxS's. They are still a bit underrated, so still a bit cheaper than Parkers and L.C. Smiths. But if you have to work on them you'll find the Remingtons easier because of less parts. Semmers book on Remington doubles is a great read at a good price - you'll never regret buying it. Mine is kept next to the bed and I've reread it many, many times. Good luck with your hunting. Paul