Hello all:
I am considering the purchase of a fine English SXS with sleeved barrels. The work was well done but at some time in the past. Now the silver-solder line is showing up around both barrels where they join the monoblock. I am wondering what are the possibilities and need some technical guidance.
Has anyone had sleeved barrels re-sleeved? I spoke with Mr. Kirk Merrington today and he says that the existing barrels (they are in good shape BTW) cannot be removed without destroying them. Re-sleeving will cost $3000. Yikes!
Another well respected gunsmith in England says that the barrels can be sweated off, saved, prepared and then TIG welded back on at a cost of $1000. Big savings if it works. I understand that TIG welded seams are more easily disguised. Has anyone had this done?
If I go this route, I'd like to find someone here in the USA who could do this kind of work and do it properly without the shipping hassles.
If I could find some technique to blacken the silver scar, that might work, but I am dubious that it would ever be permanent.
I don't know if just the seam could be welded, without removing the barrels, thereby eliminating the visible seam.
Another option would be to just walk away from the deal.
Any technical advice or other options would be welcome.
