Here is the barrel flat of the subject gun. Note, no circle or letter indicating the steel grade. The date code in the second picture “KJ” is 1940. Since it lacks a steel grade letter stamp, can we think this is Ordnance Steel, per the book? What are your thoughts?
As a counterpoint, I did see a 1940-41 date code replacement barrel on a 2 frame on a recent GB listing with the circle and “OV” on a PH, marked G on the left side of the lump.
This gun still has a 2 5/8” gauged chamber length, despite being marked for 2 3/4” shells.
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