Then there was a groove on the barrel at the breech and for some inches up which caught the eye and guided the glance like a trough to the sight at the muzzle and thence to the bird.

The stock was shod with brass, and the trigger-guard was of brass, with a kind of flange stretching half-way down to the butt and inserted in the wood.
After a few minutes' polishing it shone like gold, and to see the sunlight flash on it was a joy.
You might note the grain of the barrel, for it had not been browned; and it took a good deal of sand to get the rust off.

By aid of a little oil and careful wiping after a shower it was easy to keep it bright.

Those browned barrels only encourage idleness.

The lock was a trifle dull at first, simply from lack of use.