Question about 1929 Sterlingworth barrels

[Kirk Mckinney]

J.A. And Channing....yes it has been refinished before I got it. But just so I understand, just because the rib may have come undone in the center couple of inches. That doesn't mean the barrels are separating....is that right. Also do you know of a good gunsmith that might work on these kind of things....hopefully in Texas....also. Are these good, strong barrels???? I mean the make and where they were made, the steel they used etc.. I know you cant evaluate these specific barrels by a photo.

[J. A. EARLY]

Originally Posted by Kirk Mckinney

J.A. And Channing....yes it has been refinished before I got it. But just so I understand, just because the rib may have come undone in the center couple of inches. That doesn't mean the barrels are separating....is that right. Also do you know of a good gunsmith that might work on these kind of things....hopefully in Texas....also. Are these good, strong barrels???? I mean the make and where they were made, the steel they used etc.. I know you cant evaluate these specific barrels by a photo.

Shoot it. One spot is nothing to worry about. Go to Lowes. Buy yourself a wallpaper plastic tank for soaking wallpaper (I think they are long enough). Buy a gallon or two of WD40. Fill the tank. Put the barrels in it, top rib up and watch where it bubbles. The bubbles will show you where it is loose and will also coat the inside of the barrels. Pull them out, wipe them off, turn the voids over and let the oil drain. Reuse WD40. Shoot it. Don't spend your money unless you have to.

Just my $0.02. This is what I would do. No liable for my bad advice if others disagree.

[DoubleOframe]

Originally Posted by Kirk Mckinney

J.A. And Channing....yes it has been refinished before I got it. But just so I understand, just because the rib may have come undone in the center couple of inches. That doesn't mean the barrels are separating....is that right. Also do you know of a good gunsmith that might work on these kind of things....hopefully in Texas....also. Are these good, strong barrels???? I mean the make and where they were made, the steel they used etc.. I know you cant evaluate these specific barrels by a photo.

The rest of the rib might be fine now but there is always a chance moisture may have been getting in and causing rust and corrosion. No amount of soaking in oil will fix that and if it is the case a strip, clean and relay would be needed. If the gun hasn't been exposed to a lot of moisture it might be fine and you may get away with soldering just the loose section down. Sterlingworth barrels were well made but J. A.'s advice is also worth considering if you don't want to spend a bunch of money on the gun.

[Kirk Mckinney]

Thanks guys, I will call that gunsmith and get an estimate..... for after this season!!lol I was mainly concerned that I may shoot it and the barrels fall apart. But I also want to keep the gun in good condition. I consider it the best gun Ive ever owned... By far my favorite.

Thanks Again
.See you in the field