How to Lengthen the Chamber on an Antique Parker Shotgun | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on July 23, 2015
Duration: 1:18

This video demonstrates the process of lengthening the chamber on an antique Parker 12-gauge shotgun from 2.5 inches to 2.75 inches to accommodate modern shells. It highlights the importance of cleaning the chamber before using a piloted reamer and applying cutting oil. The process involves carefully turning the reamer with a tap handle until the reamer's shoulder meets the rim recess, while frequently clearing metal chips.

Quick Summary

Antique shotguns often have 2.5-inch chambers incompatible with modern 2.75-inch shells. Lengthening requires a piloted reamer and tap handle. Clean the chamber thoroughly, apply cutting oil, and ream until the reamer's shoulder touches the rim recess, clearing chips frequently.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Short Chambers on Antique Shotguns
  2. 00:11Measuring and Cleaning the Parker Chamber
  3. 00:19Using a Reamer to Lengthen the Chamber
  4. 00:48Completing the Chamber Lengthening Process

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do antique shotguns need their chambers lengthened?

Antique shotguns often have shorter chambers, like 2.5 inches, which are incompatible with modern 2.75-inch shells. Lengthening the chamber ensures reliable feeding and firing of current ammunition.

What tools are needed to lengthen a shotgun chamber?

You'll need a piloted chamber reamer specific to the desired length (e.g., 2.75 inches) and caliber (e.g., 12-gauge), along with a large tap handle for turning the reamer. Proper cleaning supplies and cutting oil are also essential.

How do you know when the chamber lengthening is complete?

The process is finished when the shoulder of the piloted reamer just touches the rim recess of the shotgun's chamber. Frequent chip removal and lubrication are key during the operation.

What is the importance of cleaning before reaming?

Thoroughly cleaning the chamber before reaming is critical. It ensures the reamer can cut smoothly and accurately, preventing debris from causing unevenness or damage to the chamber walls.

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