Sounds to me like the guy stole yer barrels and is making up this Cock and Bull story.

Better tape your conversations with this wacko.

First thing I'd tell him was...

That I would be contacting the state ATF...(if he's taking in guns to work on he's supposed to be licensed)....

The local authorities (you may learn some surprising things about this guy)

After that he would be hearing from my attorney....If he's lying I'm betting your barrels will miraculously appear.