GH Grade 2 with Vulcan Steel Barrels

[Mike Scelzo]

I have found a GH Grade 2 with Vulcan Steel barrels clearly marked on the rib. The barrels, frame and forend have matching serial numbers, 74566. The trigger guard is a replacement with a different, later serial number. From what I have read, it should have Damascus or Special Steel barrels, not Vulcan Steel barrels. Have I found something rare? It is in "shooter" condition.

[Dean Romig]

A letter may show it went back to Meriden for the least expensive fluid steel barrels... or not.

In any case, Parker Special Steel barrels would have been more expensive than Vulcan Steel barrels.





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[B. Dudley]

That is an earlier hammerless and that grade would have originally been fitted with Damascus barrels. However, as Dean states, the gun could have been sent back and rebarreled later on. Parker Special Steel would have been the standard fluid steel type for the grade, but any type could be put on by customer request and Vulcan steel woud be a cost savings.
A letter may give you the information pointing to a factory return, maybe not.
Another thing to look at is the bolt bite. Is it post 1910 style? That would suggest as to when the repair was done, if it was factory.
Also, the quality of the fit and style of stamping for the serial numbers will maybe suggest one way or the other as well.

[Mike Scelzo]

Thanks for your help.