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 : — 



I St. 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 i^ inch outside the extreme breech end, and 

 3 inches forward it should measure i 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" it is usually a cylinder 

 bore, but if marked "i2B"or "i3B"and "i3M"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 



