Brownells - Jack Rowe, Master Gunsmith Series, Bore Size and Proofing, Part 5 of 6

Published on May 30, 2012
Duration: 10:00

This video, part of the Jack Rowe Master Gunsmith Series, focuses on understanding European proof marks and measuring shotgun chokes. It details various national proof marks, including German (NICK), Belgian (PV with a lion), French (PT and crowns), and Austrian, emphasizing the importance of identifying 'Nitro Proof' or 'NP' for modern ammunition safety. The video also demonstrates the use of choke calipers and ball gauges to measure choke constriction, highlighting typical English gun configurations where the right barrel is more open than the left.

Quick Summary

Master gunsmith Jack Rowe explains that identifying European firearm proof marks like German 'NICK', Belgian 'PV', and French 'PT' is vital for safety. Always look for 'Nitro Proof' or 'NP' to ensure a gun is safe for modern ammunition, as using the wrong ammo can cause catastrophic failure.

Chapters

  1. 00:08German Proof Marks (NICK)
  2. 00:54Belgian Nitro Proof (PV)
  3. 01:28French Proof Marks (PT & Crowns)
  4. 01:48Austrian Proof Marks
  5. 01:56German Nitro Proof
  6. 02:09European Proof Mark Books
  7. 03:15Shotgun Choke Measurement Issues
  8. 03:29English Gun Barrel Choke Configuration
  9. 04:1412 Gauge Choke Caliper Demonstration
  10. 04:50Cylinder Bore Measurement
  11. 05:00Measuring Choke on Second Barrel
  12. 05:10Ball Gauge Measurement
  13. 07:00Decorative British Proof Marks
  14. 07:20Belgian and German Proof Marks Comparison
  15. 07:44Screw-Up Choke Gauge
  16. 08:53American Made Choke Gauge
  17. 09:36Importance of Bore Diameter Before Choke

Frequently Asked Questions

What are key European proof marks to look for on firearms?

Key European proof marks include German 'NICK' for black powder, Belgian 'PV' with a lion for smokeless powder, French 'PT' with crowns indicating proof levels, and Austrian marks often featuring 'Nitro'. Always look for 'Nitro Proof' or 'NP' for modern ammunition safety.

How do you measure shotgun choke constriction?

Shotgun choke constriction can be measured using specialized tools like choke calipers or ball gauges. These instruments are inserted into the muzzle and slowly withdrawn to indicate the degree of constriction, typically measured in thousandths of an inch.

Why is identifying Nitro Proof important for gunsmiths?

Identifying 'Nitro Proof' or 'NP' is crucial for gunsmiths to ensure a firearm is safe to use with modern smokeless ammunition. Using Nitro ammunition in a gun only proofed for black powder can lead to catastrophic failure and severe injury.

What is the typical choke configuration on an English shotgun?

On many English shotguns, the right barrel is intentionally bored with a more open choke than the left barrel. This is often to accommodate shooting birds that are flying away, allowing for a wider pattern at closer ranges and a tighter pattern for longer shots.

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