M1917 seen in the wild..

[ernie]

well it certainly is a good looking example. I would agree that maybe worth it if the bore is nice. If me, I would offer $1000 out the door (complete with tax) and see if he takes it. You seldom see them with stocks that nice.

[adanac]

I confess I'm not experienced in judging the bore. What would I look for? Is there a primer somewhere with pictures showing what good and bad look like?

[AzMedic]

Google-Fu --- https://www.google.com --- search For "Bore pitting"
Lots of images

https://youtu.be/KeIm2HvDHLw

[adanac]

Originally Posted by AzMedic

Google-Fu --- https://www.google.com --- search For "Bore pitting"
Lots of images

I'm familiar with pitting. Is that the only issue a barrel can have?

[AzMedic]

Originally Posted by adanac

I'm familiar with pitting. Is that the only issue a barrel can have?

No, other things are frosting or micro pitting caused by corrosive primers, poor cleaning, blank cartridge use, obvious rusting, throat erosion and muzzle erosion, damaged crown etc
Don't give up on a dark barrel it could just use a real good cleaning up and might be a gem.

Use the search function here : search for the above topics- lots of resources here & knowledge.

[DP68]

If you have access to headspace gauges I'd check that as well. Lots of info on this forum regarding procedure for checking M1917 headspace