How To Pillar Bed a Mosin Nagant

Published on April 15, 2015
Duration: 30:27

This guide details the process of pillar bedding a Mosin Nagant M39 rifle into a Boyds laminate stock, a technique that enhances accuracy and stock integrity. The process, explained by Ray, a professional gunsmith associated with the Sonoran Desert Institute, involves precise drilling, epoxy application, and careful curing. This modification is crucial for maintaining a stable shooting platform, especially with powerful cartridges like the 7.62x54R.

Quick Summary

Pillar bedding a Mosin Nagant M39 involves installing metal pillars into the stock for a rigid action-to-stock interface, enhancing accuracy by preventing flex. Key steps include precise drilling, using a Dremel for tang relief, applying release agent, mixing and applying Brownells Steel Bed epoxy, and allowing adequate cure time.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project Overview
  2. 01:30Drilling the Stock
  3. 04:08Fitment and Tang Relief
  4. 09:32Preparation for Bedding
  5. 10:40Clay Dams and Epoxy Mixing
  6. 11:47Applying Epoxy and Final Assembly
  7. 16:06Curing and Action Removal
  8. 17:52Final Dressing and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pillar bedding and why is it important for a Mosin Nagant?

Pillar bedding involves installing metal pillars into a rifle stock to create a rigid, consistent interface between the action and the stock. This enhances accuracy by preventing stock flex under recoil and ensures a stable shooting platform, especially for powerful cartridges like the 7.62x54R used in the Mosin Nagant.

What tools are needed for pillar bedding a Mosin Nagant M39?

Essential tools for pillar bedding include a drill press, transfer punch, Dremel tool for inletting, modeling clay for dams, release agent, and a quality bedding epoxy like Brownells Steel Bed. Proper safety gear is also crucial.

How does pillar bedding improve rifle accuracy?

Pillar bedding improves accuracy by creating a non-compressible bedding surface. This ensures the action is consistently seated in the stock, eliminating variations caused by wood compression or warping, which leads to more repeatable shot placement.

Can I pillar bed any Mosin Nagant variant?

Yes, the pillar bedding technique can be applied to various Mosin Nagant variants, including the M39 and M91/30. However, specific inletting adjustments may be necessary due to differences in rear sight bases and other dimensions, as noted for the M39.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Iraqveteran8888

View all →