In the very early part of the 20th century, in Britain, Brearly had already "discovered" chromium increased strength and ductility in gun barrels. Haynes in the U.S. developed it around that time too. Krupp was doing the same thing (probably a big reason for their reputation of strength) likely well before the rest of them. I seem to recall reading about all the industrial espionage going on around that time. By the twenties, these alloy steels were being used pretty commonly, especially in high quality guns and military arms.

Take a look at this exerpt from Mac's Fox book. There are references directly to chrome-nickel and vanadium steels, "Chromox" etc. associated with 1911-1912 times.
http://books.google.com/books?id=cbRI_7U...eel&f=false

So, I'll stick to my statement that I don't beleive LC Smith had 1020 barrels. Heck that numbering system wasn't even around when chrome-vanadium steels came about. 1020 is muffler tubing.

Last edited by Chuck H; 01/27/12 06:57 PM.