swapping barrels repro/original

[Jim Babcock]

I have an opportunity to purchase a set of 20ga repro barrels, #1 frame. I have an original 16ga VHE with a #1 frame. I understand that it would at least require fitting, but would this be a no-go from the start?

I purchased a beautiful set of 12ga #1 frame Damascus barrels that fit nearly perfect.. getting them adjusted to be perfect.

Thank you, Bigjim

[Dylan Rhodes]

I thought all 20 gauge reproductions were on a 0 frame?

[Jim Babcock]

I stand corrected. Not having my glasses on when I looked at the picture,
the only mark I could see was what looked like a l on the forward lug.. I thought it was an odd place to be marked. On further inspection, the 1 in in fact an I and on the reward lug was a faint 0.

So now, I rephrase the question... I have a VHE 16ga on a 0 frame as well. With minor fitting, would the 0 frame 20 ga repro barrels fit on the VHE 0 frame receiver?

[David Noble]

Originally Posted by Jim Babcock

.. I have a VHE 16ga on a 0 frame as well. With minor fitting, would the 0 frame 20 ga repro barrels fit on the VHE 0 frame receiver?

It is possible they could be made to fit but a lot will depended on the serial range of the VHE. If it is a very late (1934 - !935) Meridan marked gun it would be good, but a later Reminton made gun would be more likely. Either way there will likely by a good bit of fitting to be done. You'll also likely want an ejector forend for the 20 gauge barrels. Factor that into your cost of the barrels and whether it is economically feasible for the overall package.