Hal,
I saw where Skeetx opened the images, but they also won't open on my computer,where the image id should be is a block with a red x.If there was a date stamp, it would be near the caliber stamp.The lack of proof marks(as far as I can see w/o photos)indicates it was made before the proof law.This in itself would date the gun(likely 1892 or before).On the other hand, if it is marked with 8.8, this would be part of the normal proof marks and could indicate manufacture during the transition period before early 1893. I am disadvantaged by not having access to the photos.For practical purposes, the 2 3/4" would be from the breech face,but would be difficult to measure w/o a guage.Conventional measuring tools can be used for comparison, but don't expect a precise measurement.Anyway, there is little doubt that the gun is "short chambered", unless it has been opened up.This is based on the appearent age.Of more interest would be the rifle caliber,a chambercast is still needed to determine the precise 9.3 cartridge.
Mike

Last edited by Der Ami; 12/24/13 10:15 AM.