Okay, I received the Pieper. I have taken what you all have said said and this is the facts (and emotion),
1. It is black powder proofed, not nitro.
2. It has a preliminary proof mark, then an F with an arrow(?) pointing down to an R with what looks like a crown over it, then the traditional black powder proof mark.
3. It has been re-rust blued, action tightened up and re-chambered by a gunsmith named Stan Tabasco of Stockton, N.Y. Doug Turnbull did the case, charcoal bluing.
4. The gun is tight as can be.
5. The stock is in good shape, but needs to the checkering recut and refinishing. I can do that pretty well.
The cost was $1599.
So... if I reload it with the pressures down, do I have a gun I can shoot and have some fun with?
I don't have the load data from the seller (he has another just like this he uses himself). He is sending it next week.
Should I use black powder (or Trail boss only?) Would this be easier on the rifling?
Barnes claims their newest bullets are no harder on a barrel than any other bullet. I could just use those for the one or two shots it ever takes at game and use other bullets for the fun shooting. (Cheaper anyway).
And yeah, I geuss it is not "worth as much" becuase it has been altered, but I couldnt duplicate it for that price.
I don't think Ross Seyfried or Sherman Bell would be afraid to load for it and shoot it....
Should I keep it or send it back. I appreciate the knowledge of all those who contribute to my little escapade.
Jerry
