Well it would be best done that way, but do consider it possible that tests, (that you, I, or Dave might do), could have considerable meaning. For example, one could learn the most dangerous errors, one could learn, given identical errors, which rifles were able to withstand the pressures associated with that errorwithout damage. One could learn alot of things other than the specific pressures it takes to burst a barrel. One could find how much powder it takes to do it and just what kind of error it takes with that chargefor rupture to occur. One could learn if Spanish barrels "bulge faster" for example. There is an endless number of things which can be learned even though a proof pressure isn't determined.

I agree.