Hello WildCattle,
I've loaded some 225g .323 dia bullets with 40g IMR 4895 and I'm off to the range to try them. If given enough time, I might set-up the chronograph to check velocities.
In researching the manufacture of these weapons, I still have a question about the serial number. I know that you said the 1897 number on my water table is the date and not the serial number, but I'm not yet entirely convinced this is so. Of all the antique weapons in my collection, only "one" is dated, and not in that location. All those with any numbers in that location on the water table, and especially those when the number is repeated "twice", have the serial number located there.
I know you mentioned another similar weapon with a similar frame with a 1901 number, but is it possible these 3 known frames were all made in a "batch" and the serial number were in fact 1897, 1898, and 1901?
Just thinking in print.
