Repair/replace split barrel

[Chris]

I'm trying to find out what my options are to repair my Grandfather's Fox shotgun. It is a 12 gauge, Grade A, s/n 19889 with 26" Krupp Fluid Steel barrels.

Many years ago my younger - and ignorant - brother attempted to shoot a shell that he had replaced the shot with BBs.
-The BBs split the left barrel about 1-1/2" long directly opposite the other barrel (I realize the barrel may be damaged beyond 1-1/2" but that is what can be seen with the naked eye). I can only see the one crack. Mag particle or dye penetrant inspection may show more cracks or a longer crack.
- About 4" of the bottom strip of steel that hides the joint between the barrels separated from the barrels.
- The top rib did not come loose.
- The barrels did not separate from each other.
- The last couple inches of barrel developed ''flats'' like it was octagon shaped. Obviously, the BBs did this and it is apparent by feeling the outside and really apparent by feeling the inside.

I'd like to fix the gun so I can shoot it again. WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS AND CAN ANYONE RECOMMEND A QUALITY GUNSMITH WHO COULD REVIEW MY SITUATION? I live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
1. Is it possible to restore the barrel(s) by reshaping, silver solder, etc? (I suspect this is slim to none.)
2. Is it possible to fit another set of barrels and if so, what are the chances I can find that set?
3. Is it possible to accuately determine the depth of damage to the barrel, cut them off and make the muzzles look original including the front bead? (whatever choke was in the barrels would obviously be lost)

[vaturkey]

IMO 1 isn't possible. Possible options are to sleeve the barrels or to find a set of replacement barrels from another A grade and get them fitted. You can perhaps have a smith really look it over and make a determination whether or not the existing barrels can safely be cut off and make yourself a short range grouse gun or a Cowboy Action gun. You've got one of the best barrel men in the country living in Texas. Name is Kirk Merrington. I know he had some health issues, but I believe he is back to work now. Found the following on him:

Kirk Merrington Gunsmith at 207 Sierra Rd, Kerrville, TX. (830) 367-2937.

He can certainly give you the best advise for sure. He also does sleeving. PS. None of this is cheap, but he can most likely put you gun back in working order.

[Chris]

Vaturkey:
Thank you for the response. I certainly will check out Kirk in Kerrville!