Standard rib/tapered rib ends
OK, here are a couple from the safe, both D 20's. Two issues are present:
first you see the width of the tapered rib is less than the standard rib. At the breech end, the ribs are the same width. Second, you see the matting termination on one is back from the end leaving about 1/4" unmatted. On the second, the matting termination is at the end with only a straight line across. Both are original length, not cut, not dressed with a file.
The tapered rib variation is not dependent on barrel length, I have them on 28's, 30's and 32's. My oldest tapered rib is a 1905 C Bernard with Bernard rib, newest a 1939. They may have begun prior to 1905. They are not grade dependent, I've seen them on V's. Some have surmised they were late developments, but that is not so.
I am informed that sometimes tapered or standard ribs were specified, however on all of mine with tapered ribs, the records do not specify. I have not conducted nor had conducted any specific research into the records looking for tapered ribs.
I like the looks of them but do not think they make any difference in use. We discussed this with several people at Pheasant Fest and will likely do so again at the NRA. People can sight down and see if it makes any difference to them.
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