Hey everyone,

I just dug out an old damascus drilling that I have had for some time. Since I have to follow my rules and shoot/use all arms that I own, I have decided that I want to take it to the field and use it :-) . After some research, I found all the components and data to start reloading 16 2 1/2". Before ordering, are there any hints from any of you that have done this before?

I should mention that the damascus barrels have very light pitting but are solid. The gun is solid and locks tight. The rifle is 8x57r but unsure of .323 or .318. It appears to be fluid steel but I need to research that one later.

After reading about shooting BP, and just knowing how corrosive BP is, just really how long do you have to clean before corrosion starts to occur? Can you spend a full day in the field 12 hours and be safe? I know this is a relatively dumb question but relevant to someone that has no experience here and does not want to ruin a decent example of a late 19th century Germanic work of art.

Thanks in advance.