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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,521 Likes: 20
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,521 Likes: 20 |
I'm looking at a pre-WWI (serial number in the 13,xxx range) Joseph Lang, which has a replacement set of barrels manufactured between 1925 and 1954 according to the proof marks. No indication who did the barrels, but they have Birmingham proofs. The Joseph Lang name remains on the rib. Bores measure 0.729" and the minimum wall thicknesses are in the 0.030s. Balance point on the gun is reported as being approximately 3/8" forward of the hinge pin.
I'd have the gun inspected by a qualified gunsmith (probably Abe Chaber, if he's available), but I was wondering how the replacement barrels might impact the value of the gun. Is this something to steer clear of or is a new set of barrels on a gun that old an asset.
Thanks for your insight.
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 11,379 Likes: 105
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 11,379 Likes: 105 |
Not necessarily to steer clear of. Likely means the old ones were no longer serviceable. And given the date range of the replacement barrels, sleeving wasn't yet a common practice.
Less valuable than if the gun had the original barrels in good condition; more valuable than if it had sleeved barrels. If you're looking for a shooter rather than a collectible gun in original condition, and if it handles well with the replacement barrels, it's a good way of saving some $.
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 7,724 Likes: 480
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 7,724 Likes: 480 |
I would rather have the barrels replaced by the maker. But they might have been out sourced to the same man for the job. The obsession for original parts and original condition is just silly sometimes. Ask a Brit about what value reduction such a gun might be subject to over there. For me I would rather have replaced barrels than sleeved one and sleeved one rather than worn out ones.
When you have it evaluated ask if the barrels are well done and do they fit and balance well with the gun. If so do not worry about it. What are you looking for a 10 percent rule? I do not think a hard and fast rule exist. Unless is is a very high grade gun I would be tolerant of replacement barrels if they pass muster. Buy the gun not the name and the function should be good for the long haul with new barrels.
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610 |
There are too many guns available to waste money on one that's of questionable value
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Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 7,724 Likes: 480
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 7,724 Likes: 480 |
Justin why shy away from this gun. Solid barrels are perfect for a gun meant to be shot not gathering dust in a safe. I agree if yo are strictly interested in a gun as a closet queen original is paramount.
As described this gun is in proof with barrels that are just about original for thickness either factory or replaced. .030 is what most would love to have for wall thickness. Most per WWI Langs I see have barrels if original that are much to close to .020 than .035. Evaluate the gun and go from there.
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,553
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 3,553 |
I would say that it all depends on the price & condition of the gun.Without pictures & a rough idea of the price of this Lang, its impossible to say yea or nay.Some might like newer , well made bbls. Prolly better than thin pitted originals...hard to say without good pictures, wouldn't you say? cheers franc
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610 |
Franc,you are absolutely correct. To answer Jon,though,a gun with replacement barrels that were not supplied by the gunmaker should not bear the legend of the gunmaker on the rib. This is fraud.
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Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 12,743
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 12,743 |
40X seems to know the new bbls were not made by Lang, PLUS he says the name "Remains" on the rib, Not that it was placed on the rib. Seems most likely the maker disassembled the old set & reused the original rib & likely other parts as well. I do not personally see this as intent to Defraud anyone.
Miller/TN I Didn't Say Everything I Said, Yogi Berra
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 610 |
The cost of a new rib is minimal in the making of a new set of barrels. It is irresponsible for the old rib to be used. I see it as chicanery you call it cost efficiency whatever The fact is this guy is just as stuck as the other guy buying the Woodward
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 5,954 Likes: 12
Sidelock
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Sidelock
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 5,954 Likes: 12 |
Lang is a BV2 maker's name. The gun is most likely a "best work," "A" grade, or "B" grade Original Quality. The Current Condition should be around CC6 = Shootable but needs some repairs and refinishing or refinished with barrels or stock replaced.
BV2-OQ1-CC6 = $6,655, BV2-OQ2-CC6 = $4,652, and BV2-OQ3-CC6 = $3,480. Good photos will help narrow down what this one really is. BTW, BV2-OQ1-CC1 (pristine) = $30,000 and BV2-OQ3-CC9 (wall hanger level) = $718.
Hope this helps a bit.
DDA
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