Parker Laminated Steel Question
 

I have never been a fan of Damascus or laminated steel shotgun barrels but I think I'm being converted.

I have a question about Parker Laminated steel. I know that these were considered to be of lower grade than Damascus. My question is ...how strong are they? Will they withstand shooting modern smokeless powder? Is there a pressure that should not be exceeded? Any information to add to my memory banks (which are very low on information) would be well appreciated.

Frank, those of us who shoot Damascus, Laminated Steel or any of the various Twist barrels use common sense in the loads we use.
We begin by measuring barrel wall thickness and checking for deep pits, occlusions and cracks. If they check out good then we shoot loads generally under 7,000 p.s.i. Some of us load their own and shoot loads significantly lower than that.
These precautions are not specific to composite barrels either. Caution should be observed in shooting any gun of the age of the Parkers we own and shoot.

Dean, Thanks for your reply.

I think I need to reword my question. What I actually would like to know is more specific to Laminated steel. Assuming all checks out as far as thickness and condition, would laminated steel be more susceptible to failure than Damascus? Can laminated steel withstand the same pressures as Damascus?

There have been tests in Great Britain but I can't quote them - I think Dr. Drew Haus has information on the topic that he can likely post a link to.

As with Damascus, Laminated Steel also was made in several different grades and methods of manufacture... even among Parkers.

The fact that Laminated Steel and Twist were used on lower grade Parkers in no way implies inferior strength. Pattern welded barrel quality should be judged based on the quality of the gun.

Please see
https://docs.google.com/document/edi...0KNY8WMIMkdKr0

During the London Gun Trials the laminated steel made in England tested stronger than Whitworth Fluid Steel. Laminated is pretty good stuff apparently......


Destry

and if you are at all concerned about the safety of shooting any old gun, seek professional help...

and if your gun has barrels that are deemed to be unsafe, then consider sending it to briley or another skilled smith, in order to have a set of full length sub gauge tubes installed...

or just hang on the wall and admire it!

'English Best Laminated Steel' was probably a bit nicer stuff than that pounded out at the Parker factory mid-1870s :)

http://pic20.picturetrail.com:80/VOL.../394918085.jpg

I shoot mine all the time with my own reloads - just under 7000psi. The barrels are quite thick and wouldn't be afraid to shoot anything in it. I only paid $750 for it about 6 years ago but had to have Brad redo the barrels just to see what they looked like - glad I did as they came out very nice.

these old damascus and twist barrel guns have held up for me safley for over 55 years now... charlie