Real or fake Damascus

[R Ellis]

I have a smooth bore barrel that I am not sure if it is Damascus or has just a Damascus pattern what is the best way to identify which it is

 

[Colonial Boy]

Depending on the value just polish a small section of the underside and apply a weak acid, even vinegar, if a pattern shows up it’s Damascus if nothing then it’s plain iron or steel.
Generally fake damascus will have a plainer pattern than the real thing, but not always.

Can you post a photo?

 

[R Ellis]

Depending on the value just polish a small section of the underside and apply a weak acid, even vinegar, if a pattern shows up it’s Damascus if nothing then it’s plain iron or steel.
Generally fake damascus will have a plainer pattern than the real thing, but not always.

Can you post a photo?

I will get a photo tomorrow .It has a pattern now but the seam is about 1 inch wide all the length of the barrel