How to tell if a barrel is Damascus

[Mike Franzen]

Is there a test I could perform to tell if barrels on a gun are Damascus? The barrels are blued and appear to be steel but a gunsmith looking at them said they might be damascus.

[Pa SxS]

First, what does the rib say, assuming it's a Parker? Second look for wear under the forarm. Get a good magnifying glass and look real close. Examine all parts of the barrel including the barrel flats and ribs. There may be a chemical or other means but I'm not certain of that.

You could always send me the S/N or look it up in the Serialization Book if it's listed.

[winplumber]

What are the marks on the barrel flats ?

[Drew Hause]

Dab a bit of white vinegar on a soft white cloth and rub an area underneath the forend (where it won't show). The blue should fade and a pattern appear, but keep that area well oiled thereafter or it will rust.

Here's a blued GH with 'D' on the flats and the crolle pattern visible

[Mike Franzen]

I'm Sorry Chuck, the gun is not a Parker. I should have clarified that.

[B. Dudley]

Usually you can look at them in the light and at the right angle, the pattern can still be made out. If it is not a set of factory parker barrels and the rib is not marked.