HEADSPACING 101

Published on June 5, 2018
Duration: 4:26

This video explains the critical concept of firearm headspace, particularly in AK-47 rifles, defining it as the safe 'breathing room' between the bolt face and the chamber's datum. It details how to measure headspace using go, no-go, and field gauges, emphasizing the importance of not slamming the bolt onto the gauge for accurate readings. The instructor clarifies that while a no-go gauge indicates a used firearm, a field gauge signifies an unsafe condition for firing.

Quick Summary

Firearm headspace is the safe 'breathing room' between the bolt face and chamber datum, typically 1-11 thousandths of an inch. It's measured with go, no-go, and field gauges. A 'go' gauge should close on a new rifle, a 'no-go' should not. If the bolt closes on a 'field' gauge, the firearm is unsafe to fire.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction to Headspacing
  2. 00:15What is Headspacing?
  3. 00:33Understanding Headspace as Breathing Room
  4. 01:14Technical Definition of Headspacing
  5. 01:35How to Measure Headspace
  6. 01:42Go/No-Go Field Gauges Explained
  7. 02:06How Gauges Work
  8. 02:26What Not to Do When Measuring
  9. 02:40Interpreting Gauge Results for New Rifles
  10. 02:52When a Rifle is Unsafe to Fire
  11. 03:01No-Go Gauge Meaning
  12. 03:08Wear and Tear Affecting Headspace
  13. 03:30Safe Headspace Range
  14. 03:42Field Gauge Threshold for Unsafe Firearm
  15. 03:50Summary of Gauge Meanings
  16. 04:05Further Questions and Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is firearm headspace and why is it important?

Firearm headspace is the safe 'breathing room' measured between the bolt face and the chamber's datum, typically between 1 and 11 thousandths of an inch. It's crucial for ensuring safe operation; too little headspace can cause malfunctions or dangerous pressure, while too much can lead to case head separation.

How do you measure firearm headspace?

Headspace is measured using go, no-go, and field gauges. You insert the gauge into the chamber, walk the bolt forward until it rests on the gauge, and then apply forward pressure to see if the bolt will seat. Never let the bolt slam into the gauge.

What is the difference between go, no-go, and field gauges?

A 'go' gauge confirms headspace is within spec for a new firearm. A 'no-go' gauge indicates headspace exceeds new firearm specs but may be acceptable for a used firearm. A 'field' gauge signifies excessive headspace, making the firearm unsafe to fire if the bolt closes on it.

Can a rifle be unsafe to fire if it closes on a no-go gauge?

No, a rifle closing on a 'no-go' gauge does not automatically mean it's unsafe to fire. It simply indicates that the headspace is greater than that of a brand-new rifle. However, if the bolt closes on a 'field' gauge, the firearm is considered unsafe.

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