In my search for a vintage SxS Purdey, H&H or Boss & Co gun I have been told that the minimal barrel thickness I should accept is .025". With that said, I have read numerous accounts of vintage SxS guns from Boss & Co leaving the factory with minimal barrel thickness from .019" to .023". To say the least, I am now confused as to minimal barrel thickness of vintage SxS guns.

I have located a nice vintage Boss & Co "flatback" 12 gauge from around 1895 (gun is stamped "Boss Patent Ejector"). The barrels both have a minimal barrel thickness of .025". Is this a concern as to either the safety of the gun or as to resale value?

Thanks
Ken
kdross@msn.com