I've been looking but I can't find any "lengthy" discussions on the topic. I already knew of damasteel but their process of making those barrels is complex and pattented. What I want to know is: can a smith forge a damascus barrel himself and it be capable of firing todays ammo?
From what I've read, the problem with the old damascus gun barrels are that they are weak from age, rusting between the layers, and corrosive ammo. So if that's what causes them not to be able to handle modern loads, wouldn't a newly forged damascus barrel be safe?