Barrels
When someone prepares an article on Parker barrel testing, Parker Pages will certainly carry it. There is an informal report on metallurgical analysis of some barrals but it hasn't really been submitted for publication.
Two accomplished tool designers, Larry Frey and Dave Suponski are currently working with some twist and damascus barrel segments, trying to learn the cutting methods used to shape these barrels. This is an important first step in designing a non destructive test method as well as learning how early Parker barrels were made and finished.
Would you send a set of Dam 6 barrels for proof? Probabably not. There are two non destructive tests that need to be established; first a test that will determine if thin spots or seams less than 1/8 inch in diameter or width are present; second a test for ductility that will determine if the barrel metal has been embrittled by age, corrosion or heat cycling.
The first could probably be achieved by an industrial X ray, using similar techniques to testing steam pipe welds. The second might be done by measuring stretching and return to original dimensions as is done on gas cylinders. The question here is one of sufficient tests purchased to off set the original development costs.
Assuming these tests were designed; would you send a collector gun for analysis if you knew that some apparently high condition guns were found to be thin or brittle?
Best, Austin
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