I'm not that mechanically inclined, and unfortunately I don't own a set of calipers. I know how to use them, I have used them in the past. I borrow them from friends every few years or so.
My take on this whole black powder thing is to be able to shoot straight with an out-of-the-box gun, be it a pistol or a rifle. I enjoy overcoming some of the obstacles that the Shootists of yesteryear had to overcome, but at the same time I enjoy being able to take advantage of some modern technology such as wonder-wads and modern gun manufacturing.
If I was to start looking for imperfections in my arms, I would lose some of the confidence that I've built-up over several years of competitively shooting black powder (and winning), and for me some of the fun would go away. Then I'd be playing "head games" with myself trying to identify imperfect chambers and not use them during a match, all the while worrying about second-guessing myself. So that's why KNOWING about an imperfection isn't good for me.
I like knowing that both me and the gun can shoot straight. Walking up to the line and knowing where the round is going to land is a distinct advantage in my shooting circle of friends, for they are that good! Feats of marksmanship at the three clubs I belong to that shoot BP are commonplace. Cutting playing cards in half, cutting fishing line, hitting eggs, shooting at a length of chain, shooting at a target that's 50 yards away, etc. all require confidence as well as good shooting technique. Sort of like a pro basketball player that can make a basket from mid-court and hear the "swish". I don't want to "lose my edge" by starting to go down the road of worrying whether or not one chamber is better or lousier than the next. I just shoot the darn revolver and take first place.
Out-of-the-box Dave
--cheers zodd
