Damascus barrels with ivory beads

[Ray Masciarella]

When rebrowning Damascus barrels with ivory sights, do the chemicals used have an adverse affect on the ivory?

Thx, Ray

[Dean Romig]

The Ivory beads should be removed prior to rebrowning.

[Ray Masciarella]

Are they easy to remove. I would think they would break easily?

[Dean Romig]

I've never done it. You should ask Dale Edmonds or Brad Batchelder.

[Kensal Rise]

In contrast, I've had many barrels browned with the ivory sights in place. No apparent damage. Removing them may be the greater risk.

Best, Kensal

[Ruff Hunter]

Kensal,
What about for rust bluing....do ivory beads need to be removed for that process or is it safer to just leave them in?

[Kensal Rise]

No problem either way. Rust blue or browning; just leave ivory sights where they are. The process involved is iron oxidation, and the chemicals required don't seem to effect the ivory. If they ever do come loose, it's an easy task to re-install them.
Most barrel finishers will tell you the same.

Best, Kensal