How to Thin a Military Rolling Block Receiver to a Sporting Rifle | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on April 30, 2009
Duration: 1:31

This guide details the process of modifying a military rolling block receiver to a sporting rifle configuration using a milling machine. Expert gunsmith Larry Potterfield demonstrates precise material removal techniques for the receiver side walls and tang, emphasizing careful setup and multiple passes to achieve desired dimensions. The procedure requires specialized tooling and advanced machining skills.

Quick Summary

Expert gunsmithing involves using a milling machine with a fly cutter to thin the side walls of a rolling block receiver, removing approximately 0.0010 inches per pass. The tapered tang is then leveled with shims and milled to sporting specs using a radiused end mill, removing about 0.015 inches.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Milling Receiver Side Walls
  2. 00:15Setting Up for First Pass
  3. 00:26Multiple Passes for Thinning
  4. 00:37Milling the Tang
  5. 00:50Shimming and Adjusting Mill for Tang
  6. 01:07Repeating Tang Cuts
  7. 01:13Receiver Nearing Sporting Rifle Status

Frequently Asked Questions

What specialized tools are needed to modify a rolling block receiver for a sporting rifle?

Key tools for this modification include a milling machine, a clamping block to secure the receiver, a fly cutter for thinning the side walls, and a radiused end mill for shaping the tang area. Shims are also necessary for leveling the tapered tang.

How much material is typically removed when thinning a rolling block receiver for sporting use?

The video demonstrates removing approximately 0.0010 inches per pass for the receiver side walls using a fly cutter. For the tang, a pass of about 0.015 inches is shown, stopping shy of the receiver's surface to maintain integrity.

What is the purpose of shimming the tang during receiver modification?

Shimming the tang is crucial because the tang is often tapered. Shims are used to create a level surface on the milling machine, ensuring that the cuts made by the end mill are uniform and parallel to the desired sporting rifle profile.

Can a beginner attempt to mill a rolling block receiver for a sporting rifle?

This process requires advanced gunsmithing skills and familiarity with milling machinery. Precision is paramount, and mistakes can easily damage the receiver. It is recommended for experienced machinists and gunsmiths only.

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