Firearms Facts: Headspace

Published on July 10, 2019
Duration: 30:41

This video explains the critical concept of headspace in firearms, detailing how it's measured and why it's crucial for safety, especially with older firearms. It demonstrates the use of headspace gauges (go, no-go, and field) for various cartridge types and highlights the dangers of excessive headspace, including case head separation and potential firearm failure. The instructors emphasize that checking headspace is a vital safety measure for collectors and shooters of older firearms.

Quick Summary

Firearm headspace is the measurement from the bolt face to the chamber's locking surface. Excessive headspace is dangerous as it allows the cartridge case to stretch excessively upon firing, potentially causing case head separation and firearm failure. Using 'Go', 'No-Go', and 'Field' gauges is essential for checking headspace, especially on older firearms.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Headspace
  2. 00:48What is Headspace?
  3. 01:32Measuring Headspace
  4. 03:52Wear and Headspace Changes
  5. 04:52Consequences of Excessive Headspace
  6. 05:53Cartridge Jump and Pressure Spikes
  7. 07:24Using Headspace Gauges
  8. 09:13Checking Headspace on a Mauser
  9. 10:25303 British Headspace Issues
  10. 11:03Rimmed vs. Rimless Gauging
  11. 12:36Measuring Shoulder Setback with Comparator
  12. 13:36Case Head Separation Risk
  13. 14:32Case Head Failure Incident
  14. 17:38Dealing with Excessive Headspace
  15. 18:35Modern Headspace Story
  16. 19:13Checking a Mosin-Nagant
  17. 20:32Summary of Safe Rifles
  18. 21:04Custom Build Headspace Issue
  19. 25:38Modern Examples Recap
  20. 26:01Recommended Gauges
  21. 27:06Headspace Gauges for Collectors
  22. 28:05Brass Tells the Story
  23. 29:18Conclusion & Final Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What is firearm headspace and why is it important?

Headspace is the critical measurement from the bolt face to the chamber's locking surface. It's vital for safety because excessive headspace allows the cartridge case to stretch too much upon firing, potentially leading to case head separation, pressure spikes, and firearm failure.

What are the different types of headspace gauges?

The main types are 'Go' gauges (minimum safe headspace), 'No-Go' gauges (maximum safe headspace), and 'Field' gauges (a more lenient standard for worn firearms). If a bolt closes on a 'No-Go' or 'Field' gauge, it indicates excessive headspace.

Which firearms are most prone to headspace issues?

Older surplus firearms, such as 303 British Lee-Enfields and some Mosin-Nagant rifles, are frequently found to have excessive headspace due to wear. It's crucial to check these before firing.

How can I tell if my firearm has excessive headspace from fired brass?

Look for signs on the fired brass like excessive stretching, significant primer setback (the primer is pushed back into the case), or complete case head separation. These are strong indicators of headspace problems.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Iraqveteran8888

View all →