Anvil 078: #4 Mk.1 Truck Gun Carbine Part 1

Published on February 17, 2020
Duration: 43:15

This video details the initial stages of converting a Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk. 1 into a compact "truck gun" carbine. It covers assessing a donor rifle for custom work, planning a 16 3/8-inch barrel chop while maintaining factory proportions, and preparing the barrel for threading and crowning. The project emphasizes ethical modification of surplus firearms and showcases advanced gunsmithing techniques.

Quick Summary

The project converts a Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk. 1 into a rugged 'truck gun' carbine by shortening the barrel to a legal 16 3/8 inches. Techniques include precise barrel machining, custom threading, and extending the wooden handguard using a scarf joint.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project Introduction: Truck Gun Carbine Build
  2. 01:01Donor Rifle Assessment: Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk. 1
  3. 03:41Shortening Strategy: 16 3/8 Inch Barrel
  4. 04:59Legal Barrel Length Measurement Explained
  5. 06:31Muzzle Device Engineering Plan
  6. 09:34Gunsmithing Ethics: Modifying Surplus Firearms
  7. 11:03Barrel Preparation and Removal
  8. 14:44Barrel Machining: Lathe Work and Threading
  9. 17:43Handguard Modification: Extending Wood
  10. 21:19Part 1 Conclusion & Progress Review

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk. 1 truck gun project?

The project aims to convert a Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk. 1 into a compact, major-caliber 'truck gun' carbine for a rancher. The focus is on creating a rugged firearm that can withstand abuse without appearing like a poorly modified 'Bubba' gun.

How is the barrel length legally measured for a rifle conversion?

According to NFA standards, barrel length is measured from the bolt face to the muzzle. Mark Novak demonstrates using a rod down the barrel, targeting 16 3/8 inches to ensure the firearm remains classified as a rifle.

What woodworking technique is used to extend the handguard?

To extend the upper handguard for the carbine conversion, a 22.5-degree scarf joint is used. This technique joins two pieces of wood, providing a larger surface area for a strong bond with Acraglas epoxy.

When is it ethically acceptable to modify a military surplus rifle?

It is generally considered ethical to modify 'mutt' rifles with mismatched parts or those in poor condition with rust or damage. Historically significant, numbers-matching examples should ideally be preserved or conserved.

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