1. In general, how is a barrel proofed? Actually, the entire gun is proofed, not just the barrels. In the UK, it is submitted (gunmaker may be required) to the Proof House (London or Birmingham) for "viewing" (observation and measurement) by highly skilled technicians. It is returned if it does not pass exacting standards of condition. If it passes "view," it is fired (used to be once but now is twice, BOMK)with highly controlled ammo. After firing, it is again "viewed" for any changes in dimensions of conditiion. In the USA, manufacturers are on the hook for any failures, so proof is by company standard. There is no standardized proof in USA.
At one time the barrels were proofed, at least in Belgium. Once they pass proof, then they were fitted to the action and the entire gun was proofed. The Belgians had a separate proof mark for the barrels.
See marks #6 and #8 here, also #30 which indicates that a separate proofing of the barrels is now optional:
http://damascus-barrels.com/Belgian_All_Proofmarks.htmlI have pictures of a bank of barrels being proofed, just can't locate them at the moment. I am not clear as to the current CIP practices, but believe Don is correct. It is an easy mistake to make given the long history....
Pete
