Gunsmithing - How to Rebore a Rifle Barrel Presented by Larry Potterfield of MidwayUSA

Published on November 29, 2013
Duration: 5:24

This video details the complex gunsmithing process of reboring a Winchester 1885 Low Wall rifle from a pitted .32 Rimfire to a .357 Magnum. It covers barrel removal, sending it to a specialized shop for reboring and rifling, precise chambering and crowning on a lathe, and converting the action from rimfire to centerfire. The process concludes with barrel marking and finishing.

Quick Summary

Reboring a rifle barrel involves drilling out the old bore to a larger diameter and cutting new rifling, often performed by specialized gunsmiths. This process can restore functionality to a pitted barrel and allow conversion to a different caliber, like changing a .32 Rimfire to a .357 Magnum.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project Introduction: Rebore Winchester 1885
  2. 00:55Disassembly and Barrel Removal
  3. 01:24The Reboring & Rifling Process
  4. 01:55Chambering and Muzzle Crowning
  5. 03:38Action Conversion: Rimfire to Centerfire
  6. 03:56Barrel Marking and Finishing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for reboring a rifle barrel?

Reboring a rifle barrel involves sending it to a specialized shop to have the existing bore drilled out to a larger diameter. New rifling grooves are then cut, and the barrel is hand-lapped to ensure a smooth finish. This process allows for conversion to a different caliber.

How is a rimfire action converted to centerfire?

Converting a rimfire action to centerfire typically requires modifying the breech block, drilling a new hole for a centerfire firing pin, and fabricating a new firing pin. The extractor may also need modification to accommodate the larger centerfire cartridge case.

What tools are essential for removing a rifle barrel?

Essential tools for removing a rifle barrel include a heavy-duty barrel vice to securely hold the barrel and an action wrench to grip the receiver. These tools prevent damage to the firearm during the separation process.

Why would someone rebore a rifle barrel?

Reboring is often done when a barrel's original bore is damaged, such as through severe pitting, making it inaccurate or unsafe. It also allows for a firearm to be converted to a more desirable or readily available caliber.

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