Any theories as to why Bernard barrels seem to hold black and white color so well??? Many examples have lots of wear but the barrel patterns always seem very strong??

Thanks Bruce. It's even clearer now.

Craig, Dale Edmonds refinished a set of Bernard barrels for me a few years ago (long since sold) and he told me that Bernard barrels require only about half the 'iterations' that damascus barrels require to bring out the very best black & white finish. Perhaps Dale can answer your question.

Most likely just the properties of the steel used in making the Bernard barrels.

Brian, I don't agree with your supposition that Bernard barrels don't wear to silver as readily as other damascus patterns. I've seen some silvered ones, but many others not, and I believe that as in many high grade guns, people tended not to use them as much or when they did, take better care of them. As a result we often see high grade guns in good condition, and seldom see Trojans in good shape. Being a Bernard collector, I'd like to agree that Bernard iron and steel is better, but I have no proof than it is.

The best I can come up with is that there is a Parker letter that in response to a query about which barrel composition would withstand wear better, Parker's answer was Acme, Bernard and last Damascus.

Bruce,

I never made the statement that Bernard steel wears better than others. That was a statement made by another member.

I do not have any first hand experience in owning Bernard barreled guns. So I would not know if they do or do not age/wear any differently. But, if they do... apart from good care, it might be due to the steel.

My mistake, it was Craig Larter and his comment was directed to silvering.