We don't know the composition of DeMoya Steel



The best of that era was AISI 1211 Rephosphorized Resulfurized Low Alloy Steel to 1045 Carbon Steel, or something in between, all of which would certainly be scored if a steel pellet came in contact with the bore. I would never shoot steel in a non-alloy barrel ie. 4140.

BTW: you might find this of interest, mostly courtesy of Researcher
http://www.picturetrail.com/sfx/album/view/22641451

https://sites.google.com/a/damascusknowledge.com/www/home