Decided to go with the unmarked barrel set for the next double flint. Both bores were thoroughly cleaned then lightly polished after trimming and tapping the chambers for breech plugs. After installing the temporary breech plugs both barrels were charged with the standard proof load: 7 drams equivalent 2f powder and 1 3/4 oz. of shot. I normally don't do this (load both barrels at the same time) but since daylight was fading fast both barrels were charged and the right barrel was set up with the igniter. The flash carried over to the left barrel and both barrels detonated at the same time. Here's the video:
Proof test video That's the sound of 380 grains of powder expelling 3 1/2 ounces of lead. After hearing the explosion I honestly believed the barrels were toast. Not only did they survive, they survived unscathed. Breech plugs remained tight, no change to bore or barrel diameter in the critical areas and they ring just as before the proofing.
There's good reason not to charge both barrels at the same time for proof testing. Luckily this is one well made set of barrels. It's a shame we'll never know who made them. So, it goes without saying they passed proofing and will be a fine addition to the finished work.
Hank
