I have a hard time saying that a gun that operated properly for 100 years before failing had a design defect. I think at that point you are passed the anticipated life expectancy for the design. That doesn't mean the failure wasn't due to the design I just can't use the word defect.

We all need to realize that when shooting guns this old--and I do it, my oldest is 1884--we are taking more risk than with a new gun.

So to me the question is finding indicators of potential impending failure.

Unfortunately, from the pictures of the destroyed barrels it looks like there is no way to tell if there was any visible sign on the exterior or interior that could have been a clue, however minor.

Anyone else have ideas on what to look for?