GT Specialties barrel changing ....

[G.T.]

Hello to all! Well, the next project is here, and I've pretty much spent the last few weeks getting the equipment (I Think!) I need, fabricated... Anyway, here's where we are at so far! I have totally come to grips with the barrel removal.... Got the right stuff, and the correct technique... Or at least I think I do?? Also, I'm getting pretty well versed on the new, or replacement barrel installation..( a little more challenging?) I have more to learn, but the normal barrels in the normal configuration are not to scary anymore! Now for the tough part, I have yet to gear up for the gunsmith end of things, meaning I haven't had to machine anything (just one easy one so far) to make all fit... that will be the challenge of the future... But!, I'm up and running and looking forward to taking on more re-barreling if it is required... ... Best to all, til...lat'r....GT

[Ice]

Would love to get a look at all of your equipment when you get it together. Thanks for the update.

Charlie

[G.T.]

Hi Charlie, well, equipment wise, it's kind of an on-going design on the fly type of quest?? First, I had to have a receiver fixture made that supports the complete receiver, after that was satisfactory, I had an inside fixture made to support and also use the interior surfaces to help turn the receiver... Then windows had to be cut to see what was occurring, and finally, a wrench designed to give max support and leverage to the whole shebang... Anyway, that was just part on the issue, holding the barrel was just as problematic... I had experimented with several setups, and finally it came down to a set of two X two overall, alum. block with the correct taper machined into the center.. I then in turn, clamp the fixture barrel to my work bench with an impact wrench and start assembling the parts... The three I have done so far, have turned in about half way, with some effort needed to finish and get close to the marks...Then it's a matter of compromise between, three factors.. the front sight base, the extractor relief, and the timing marks... I try to get the front sight base perpendicular to the toggle knobs, and the top level with the rear sight... I'm confident this is within 1/2 degree when finished.. and if the extractor relief is aligned to accept my byf test toggle ass'y, then we're good to go... least important is the receiver /barrel alignment marks, they are used primarily as a relative guide, and although close, probably will not index with complete accuracy, they do give you some reference as to how much further you need to go, or ... how much too far you've already gone!!?? ... Needless to say, the barrels seem plenty tight long before the marks are reached.. While doing this type of operation, I've come to believe that the receiver witness marks were made when the receiver was made, and the barrel, pre marked or not, was indexed to it later, or after final assembly... I'll learn more as we go.. just wanted to let the guys know we're up and running.. I have more mods on the blocks for the future, just for accuracy and correct comparative torque values... It's pretty neat and fun when you have the right stuff! best to all, til...lat'r...GT

[lfid]

GT , ran across this one - might be of interest - sorry for bother if you have seen it already

http://www.lugerforum.com/WitnessMarkConclusions.htm

good luck in the quest !!!
Bill

[G.T.]

Hi Bill, I have read and reread the article now with renewed interest... Great stuff... I am on the right track with the receiver mark being consistently stamped, but the barrels still remain a mystery to some degree... .. Thanks Bill, til...lat'r....GT