Author Topic: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"  (Read 430 times)

Offline Marplot

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Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« on: January 20, 2024, 04:36:31 PM »
Looking to buy antique pistols cased set, looks good otherwise, but seller says "Lightly pitted, dark bores." I think he is saying it needs cleaning? Dark bores may be rusted, but lightly pitted could only mean just need to be cleaned. Maybe abrasive cloth? I would like to shoot them, but not often.

What would my best way to clean up "dark bores?"
« Last Edit: January 20, 2024, 04:39:45 PM by Cadillac Bill »
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Offline smart dog

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Re: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« Reply #1 on: January 20, 2024, 04:48:10 PM »
Hi,
It really depends on the actual condition.  It can range from simply wiping the bore with an oiled patch to polishing the bore with Scotch Bright pads wrapped around a cleaning jag and dipped in valve grinding compound, and variations of that in between.  If the bores are rifled, other methods may be necessary.

dave
« Last Edit: January 20, 2024, 04:54:01 PM by smart dog »
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Offline Bob Roller

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Re: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« Reply #2 on: January 20, 2024, 04:52:22 PM »
If they are smooth bore a lathe and reamer might work.An adjustable reamer.
Bob Roller

Offline Pukka Bundook

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Re: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« Reply #3 on: January 20, 2024, 06:41:24 PM »
What Smart Dog Dave says, Bill.

Am sure folk would love to see them if you do the deal!
I will reply to your PM soon, but been up to my eyes in it at present!

Offline Daryl

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Re: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« Reply #4 on: January 20, 2024, 09:13:16 PM »
Post on two different forums.
Daryl

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Offline Niall

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Re: Thinking about buying a cased set, pistols. "Dark bores"
« Reply #5 on: January 20, 2024, 11:28:49 PM »
Are they flintlock or percussion? Are they  British ? When a dealer says they have issues......believe them. Auctioneers are more variable. Show some photos or descriptions...people here have down this road before. ;)