Thanks Tom; very interesting observations and I now see the "Compression 850" mark. Every time you post we learn something. Thanks.

I must admit that I had never seen those marks on the barrel (1.330 kg) and your explanation is excellent. Wonder if they were purchased in Belgium then proofed in Saint-Etienne. The Stephenois were complaining about Belgian competition from at least 1878...I translated a letter by Didier-Drevet to the Saint-Etienne press in 1880 after a world's fair to this effect. Raimey should be along shortly to comment.

Traditional French checkering is the "basket weave style" like this on my "Wonder."
[Linked Image from jpgbox.com]

I'm wondering when the French went to the easier checkering as on this gun?

Again thanks. Gene Williams

Last edited by Argo44; 01/14/21 11:38 PM.
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