GUNS 21 
the hands of the Gunmakers’ Association, who will at once take steps 
to secure a conviction. Any gunmaker will be pleased to give full 
particulars as to how to communicate with the Secretary. 
‘‘We do not, of course, accuse all pawnbrokers of fraudulent 
trading, but in jewellery, plate, and guns, a certain number of the 
fraternity plunder the public in a wholesale manner, as they sell prac- 
tically all common new stuff and represent the articles as being 
valuable goods that have been pledged.” 
These are excellent general rules, and the following more 
important ones cannot fail to be of value. 
In buying a gun, the following are the principal points 
that should be examined :— 
Ist. BARRELS. If Damascus, see that the metal is free from flaws 
or cracks, which usually run in a spiral direction. A small 
spot or speck in the metal does not usually affect the strength 
of the barrels, but a flaw extending spirally renders them 
extremely dangerous. See that the cartridge chambers are free 
from defective places in the metal. Examine carefully the 
holes into which the extractor leg and guide pin work, as in 
many guns the holes are not drilled centrally, and thus one of 
the barrels is seriously weakened in its most dangerous part. 
Probably more guns burst through the small hole for the 
extractor guide pin being drilled on one side than from all 
other causes combined. The diameter of a 12-bore barrel should 
not be less than 1} inch outside the extreme breech end, and 
3 inches forward it should measure 1 inch diameter. See that the 
extractor works freely ; look through the barrels to see that they 
are free from dents, and also along the outsides to see that 
they are free from bulges. Notice in top and side lever whether 
they are single or double bolted. If choke-bored look at the 
proof marks on the barrel, as the amount of choke and the 
words ‘‘not for Ball” are stamped by the Proof House. If 
the barrel is marked either ‘‘ 12” or ‘‘13” itis usually a cylinder 
bore, but if marked ‘‘12B” or “13 B” and ‘°13M” or 14M” 
it is choked, those numbers referring to the sizes at the breech 
and muzzle respectively. It is always advisable to try an empty 
cartridge case in a gun to see that it fits properly. Sportsmen 
