I've pictured some of the proofs for interest. There is a small J.N. stamp in front of the wedge cage. I wonder if anyone knows anything about this stamp.

Per suggestion from a different forum, I used an old tapered plum bob with various grit papers (120 to 600) to bevel the muzzle for easy loading. When I removed the barrel from the stock, I found that the wedge was years ago broken. (see pics) Not sure if this would be a shooting issue or not, but I had the piece of the wedge that broke off, so I silver soldered it back in place. It fits nicely and looks ok.

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/8bore-proofs.jpg

[Linked Image from buckstix.com]

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/REPAIRED-WEDGE.jpg

[Linked Image from buckstix.com]

How to Hunt Wisconsin Whitetail Deer with a Cannon