Back From The Brink 2: Gunstar Renovation Challenge! #1 **RE-UPLOAD**

Published on September 23, 2019
Duration: 18:02

This video details the initial disassembly and assessment of a converted 1874 Gras rifle, now a 12-gauge shotgun. The presenter, with apparent experience in firearm restoration, meticulously strips the weapon, highlighting significant damage to the stock, including cracks and missing wood, and noting the conversion from its original cartridge to 12-gauge with Belgian proof marks. The process involves detailed inspection of the bolt, barrel, and action, setting the stage for a comprehensive renovation challenge.

Quick Summary

This video showcases the initial disassembly and assessment of an 1874 Gras rifle converted to a 12-gauge shotgun. The firearm exhibits significant stock damage, including cracks and missing wood, and Belgian proof marks. The presenter plans a high-contrast refinish, combining polished and blued parts, while also addressing stock repairs and barrel condition.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction & Challenge Brief
  2. 00:21Initial Assessment of Condition
  3. 00:59The Renovation Challenge Begins
  4. 02:00First Glimpse of the Rifle
  5. 02:53Identifying the 1874 Gras Rifle
  6. 03:14Internal & External Condition Report
  7. 04:03Planned Aesthetic Changes
  8. 04:47Workbench: Stripping the Rifle
  9. 05:42Disassembly Progress
  10. 06:03Bolt Head and Conversion Details
  11. 06:34Action Disassembly
  12. 06:52Critique of Conversion Work
  13. 07:32Stock Finish Removal Challenge
  14. 07:56Detailed Stock Crack Assessment
  15. 08:18Removing Damaged Screws
  16. 08:33Cleaning Rod Channel Inspection
  17. 09:04Action Removal from Stock
  18. 09:24Repair Priorities
  19. 09:44Bolt Condition and Service
  20. 10:01Refinishing Plan: High Contrast
  21. 10:30Bolt Head Reassembly Check
  22. 10:45Headspace and Firing Pin Protrusion
  23. 10:58Overall Condition and History
  24. 11:15Trigger Spring Removal & Mechanism
  25. 11:45Trigger Job Considerations
  26. 12:04Barrel Pitting and Bore Measurement
  27. 12:37Choke Assessment
  28. 12:42Shotgun Specifications Summary
  29. 13:02Stock Refinishing Begins
  30. 13:42Trigger Guard and Base Plate
  31. 13:51Addressing the Stock Crack
  32. 14:21Rear Pad Refinishing
  33. 14:53Action Refinishing Plan
  34. 15:25Heavy Trigger Charm
  35. 15:29Action Refinishing Quandary
  36. 16:07Finalizing Action Finish
  37. 16:09Stock Darkening and Oiling
  38. 16:21Removing Final Screws
  39. 16:48Receiver Inspection and Cleaning
  40. 17:15Gun's History and Future
  41. 17:25Episode Wrap-up and Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of firearm is being renovated in this video?

The firearm is an 1874 Gras rifle that has been converted into a 12-gauge shotgun. It features Belgian proof marks, indicating a common modification practice in Belgium.

What is the condition of the rifle's stock?

The stock is in very poor condition, with a large crack running through it, a missing chunk of wood, and a refinished surface that has been severely damaged and beaten up.

What are the presenter's plans for the rifle's aesthetic?

The presenter plans a high-contrast look, combining polished and blued parts. The stock will be darkened down, and efforts will be made to fix cracks and improve the overall appearance.

What is the condition of the rifle's barrel?

The barrel is identified as 12-gauge and appears to be straight-piped with negligible choke. It measures approximately 29-30 inches in length and shows signs of pitting.

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