Ballistics Advantage - Barrel Autopsy

Published on June 29, 2023
Duration: 8:22

This expert guide details a comprehensive 'barrel autopsy' procedure, as demonstrated by the School of the American Rifle. It covers essential checks including thread concentricity, material identification, magnetic properties of the extension, erosion gauging, bore straightness, gas port alignment, and headspace verification using specialized gauges. A critical borescope inspection revealed a manufacturing defect: a smoothbore barrel lacking rifling, highlighting the importance of thorough inspection regardless of brand or price due to potential quality control lapses.

Quick Summary

A 'barrel autopsy' is a detailed inspection of a firearm barrel to detect defects. It involves checking thread runout, erosion, straightness, gas port alignment, and headspace using specialized gauges. A borescope is critical for revealing internal issues like the absence of rifling, as seen in a Ballistic Advantage barrel example.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Barrel Autopsy
  2. 00:32Thread and Material Checks
  3. 01:58Erosion and Straightness Gauging
  4. 02:58Gas Port and Headspace Verification
  5. 05:23Borescope Inspection: The Major Flaw
  6. 07:48Conclusion and Quality Control Lesson

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'barrel autopsy' in firearm inspection?

A 'barrel autopsy' is a thorough inspection process to identify manufacturing defects or wear in a firearm barrel. It involves checks like thread runout, erosion gauging, straightness testing, gas port alignment, headspace verification, and critical borescope examination to ensure the barrel's integrity and functionality.

What critical defect was found in the Ballistic Advantage barrel autopsy?

During the borescope inspection of the Ballistic Advantage barrel, a critical manufacturing defect was discovered: the barrel was a smoothbore, meaning it completely lacked rifling. Despite passing other dimensional checks, this defect would severely impact accuracy.

Why is checking the barrel extension for magnetism important?

Checking the barrel extension for magnetism is important because a magnetic extension can potentially cause reliability issues, especially when using steel-cased ammunition. Non-magnetic materials are generally preferred for optimal function in AR-15 platforms.

What tools are essential for a comprehensive barrel inspection?

Essential tools for a comprehensive barrel inspection include a borescope, headspace gauges (Go, No-Go, Field), pin gauges for gas port alignment, erosion gauges, a straightness gauge, and a compatible bolt carrier group. Visual inspection and magnetic tests are also crucial.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from School of the American Rifle

View all →