Pieper invented the Monobloc, 1881. The barrels were screwed into the breech. His patent required a band on the muzzles.

His company moved to the demibloc after his death. I believe at the time, it was the cheaper method. So, by 1900 the demibloc was in use by Pieper.

Beretta adopted the monobloc in 1913, if Wilson is correct. I know there no Beretta guns that use it in a 1910 catalog. Another early user was Darne.

http://damascus-barrels.com/uspatentnom.html

http://www.google.com/patents?id=QiBMAAA...p;q&f=false

Sears 1897 catalog.


In this 1932 Beretta catalog, the M1010 is clearly a monobloc.


This is a 1938 Beretta catalog. It appears the barrels are soldered or brazed.


This is not a monobloc, but you get the idea.


Personally, I only care that it has passed proof.

Pete

http://www.damascus-barrels.com/Movie.html