Please Help with proof marks of Scherping 9.3x72 double rifle

[buckstix]

I just acquired a neat little double rifle in 9.3x72 ? ?

Please Help with proof marks of this Scherping double rifle. I find no caliber marking and although 9.3x72R cartridges fit into the bullet trap on the bottom of the stock, when I try to chamber the cartridges they stop 1/2" short of chambering. The seem to get tight and bind right in the "middle" of the case. A chamber cast shows the correct overall length for 72mm but the middle of the cast is about .001" under size of a new brass case. Any info about Scherping and the markings would be appreciated. Also, I can't find any serial number. The only number I find is a tiny 1995 on the forearm hanger.

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/SCHERPING-000.jpg

[mike ford]

buckstix,
To address the proof marks, we would need a photo of the marks. The cartridge it is chambered for seems to be the "D" version of the 9.3x72R. There are a couple ways to handle the ammunition. You can size the cartridges in a 38-55 file trim die until it chambers, then reload the cases in normal dies. A member has reported sizing the cartridges in a normal sizing die, but with tape or a strip cut from a file label wrapped around the case at the point of interference. After removing the cartridge from the die and removing the tape, he reported it chambered in his rifle. While I normally avoid rechambering original rifles, this is an exception. Re chambering to the "N"(normalized- standardized) version does not require re-proofing the rifle, which will then chamber currently available ammo. It is surprising how little metal is removed in the process.
Mike

[buckstix]

I tried the 38-55 die, it didn't work. Same for the tape trick, didn't work either. The reamer is likely the best bet. see link for pics

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/SCHERPING-000.jpg

[algmule]

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[mike ford]

Now that photos have been provided, I recognize this rifle as the same one in a thread in Doublegun Forum, under " Double Rifles, Paradox Guns, and Gauge Rifles"; started by Themauserkid on 05/22/25, titled H. Scherping 9.3x72. It is identifiable as the same rifle by a distinctive mark on the stock(scratch?). The rifle is also in an article in "German Hunting Guns" about H. Scherping, the link for which is given by Peter above. I suggest you go to Themauserkid's thread for additional information. If you still can't get the 38-55 file/trim die or tape trick to work, and intend to rechamber the rifle, PM me concerning a reamer.
Mike

[buckstix]

Hello Mike,

Yes, the same rifle. Thanks for pointing out the link - useful info. As with all my doubles, I intend to load and shoot this one and will provide a range report. Fortunately I have swage dies for .358, and 360, and 366, for making bullets in weight from 160g up to 350g. In the past I have been able to regulate my doubles by varying the bullet weight. First order was to case this little double. Every nice double deserves a nice leather case.

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/SCHERPING-TRAP.jpg

http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/SCHERPING-CASE.jpg

SCHERPING-TRAP.jpg

[mike ford]

buckstix,
I agree that it is a very nice rifle. In my experience, rifles with a bore diameter shown as gauge measurement 118,35 most often "slug" out to a groove diameter of .358-.359". Your dies seem to span the required diameters. If you intend to rechamber the rifle to the "N" version and don't have a reamer, PM me for information.
Mike

[buckstix]

Hello Mike - PM sent

I slugged the bore ... see pics

Once I get some brass that fits the chambers, I will try some factory 200g .358 bullets to see how they regulate.

Here are the specs about this little double:

Action is Top Lever Round Body w/ English Scroll Engraving w/ Rebounding Hammer Back-Action Locks w/ Greener Cross Bolt
Double Triggers w/ both Set-Triggers
Metal Condition is Very Good to Excellent w/ much Original Finish remaining
Highly Figured European Walnut Stock w/ a few Handling Marks w/ Cartridge Trap on Stock Bottom w/ Buffalo Horn Butt Plate
LOP is 14 inches to Front Trigger
Barrels are 27 inches w/ Matted Full Wide Rib
Sights are 2-Position Toggle Rear Site w/ Flip-up Tang Site and Platinum Bead Front Site w/ Ivory Bead Flip-up Moon Site
Bore Condition is Very Good to Excellent w/ 6-groove Henry Style Rifling
Weight is a Dainty 6 lbs 11 ounces



http://www.buckstix.com/buckpics/SCHERPING-SLUGS.jpg

SCHERPING-SLUGS.jpg