Charlie I went with the 185.00 barrel. I talked to the maker quite a bit. I have 11 cannons in total. 1 Bronze., 1 Stainless., and the rest cast iron over a liner. I have never had any problems ever in 15 years. The cannons look as good today as ever. When I clean a barrel I inspect it (You kind of have to to clean it well) then I oil it for storage.
For example a Stainless set of tracks for a tank might provide better tracks. But dollar for dollar on the ride.,its a bit over kill for no reason. Unless you want that tank to last 4 or 5 lifetimes.
Most of these cast over a liner cannons were poured so hot the cast Iron is literally married to the liner. Perhaps one came loose., but if so., a DOM would have to., thats about heat during manufacture.I believe this is a good thing. I have read some posts about taking out a liner and replacing it. I dont think theres alotta guys out there that are going to help me replace my liners in my Hern 3" Ordinance rifles. As a matter of fact I dont think those liners are ever coming out., they are married to those guns. Someone would need a 10ft lathe bed. I have heard stories about the black powders caustic effects eating away at the liners seam ., And it makes me laugh to be honest.
Charlie.,I own and operate a Rooter Service and have for 23 years. Sulphuric acid ., draino ., water itself., are ALL more destructive than the caustic effects of black powder eating away at me welded seam. I am sort of a pipe expert myself you might say.
Sometimes you cant believe everything you read.
I am not a believer in the theory., "A DOM liner is THEE only pipe you can use , anything else is a no-no".
I believe its a bit over kill and if some club or organisation says you have to have it to compete with them fine. Its there deal., but it isnt mine. I have had no problems and have looaded my cannons to the hilt. I dont participate in sanctioned events., I dont like rules.
After using Hern Cannons and Grey Star Industry Cannons I believe in them whole heartledly.
If your looking at them .,it may be you want one. Dont let someones post scare you away from a nice cannon and a lotta fun.
