On the muriatic acid. Does it take any patina off? I might try that on another old cheaper gun.

Owen

SN 379 has been for sale in France a while ago.

Thanks for sharing!

Bob,

That would be tremendous knowing and learning what improvements the letter, "B', stands for. From memory it's one of the few models that have a letter designation at the end of it's serial number and we're not sure what improvements we're made.

Tony

Hightime said
I liked to see the video, thank you.
Owen
  

Owen,

I used Mark's process, and it worked. The only difference is that the "Regent", stuff he used in his video, is a little pricey,(and seemed to be sold in larger containers or volume only), for us collectors and as a one time user, so I did some research, and I had some Muriatic Acid on hand, and using his method, carefully it worked out well for me. Mark's videos are very good, and his shared knowledge is second to none. IMO!

With good ventilation, and the proper safety equipment, glasses, gloves, etc....It's worth it to carefully try it, but make sure you remove the wood, and get set up properly. There's no short cuts doing this! IMHO! 

Tony

Does your 1886 have a set trigger?

Mike

Owen

JWA said
Thanks for posting that Jeremy, I did not know Mark did a video on the process!  It is excellent as usual.
Best Regards,
  

Absolutely, I found it very interesting to say the least...a glimpse into forensic science!

Bob

I always had this question . . .

What is the significance of the “B” suffix to the serial number?

My rifle has a “sewer-pipe” bore, BUT! . . .

With my handload, it groups well enough to allow me to pot a few chucks!

09-25-2026 - Griff from the Cast Boolits forum
10-20-2026 - Slug from over on the Canadian Gun Nutz forum
10-20-2026 - Texas By God from the Cast Boolits forum
10-25-2026 - Chill Wills from the Cast Boolets
11-03-2026 - Popoise from over on the Canadian Gun Nutz forum

https://sites.google.com/view/44winchester/doc-pardee-club

Best Regards,

X-ray (aka RT) is typically not the correct method for detecting serial numbers. 

For serial number recovery there are two paths, the destructive path which are the more definitive methods and utilizes an acid etchant and requires polishing of the surface.  This method provides the best results. 

The other path is to utilize non-destructive test methods (NDT) such as Magneto-Optical or Magnetic Particle inspection using the wet fluorescent method (aka MT "Wet-Mag"). 

I am retired but all of my ASNT NDT Level III certifications are still current.  You are welcome to contact me directly if you have any technical questions or looking for a reputable lab near you.  I am familiar with large independent firearms testing labs in CA, NH, VA and PA.  For criminal work, the ATF and FBI have the best facilities for recovering serial numbers but they are very slow due to case backlogs.

Best Regards,