Jack Rowe, Master Gunsmith Series, Making a Spring. Part 1 of 3.

Published on May 30, 2012
Duration: 9:49

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe demonstrates the intricate process of crafting a replacement lever spring for firearms. This expert-level guide covers identifying different spring types, selecting appropriate materials like 3/32 flat spring steel, and employing precise techniques involving heating, bending, and hammering to achieve a functional and durable component. Rowe emphasizes when it's more practical to purchase a spring versus undertaking a custom fabrication.

Quick Summary

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe demonstrates how to craft a firearm lever spring using 3/32 flat spring steel. The process involves careful heating, bending with pliers and a jig, and shaping with a hammer and vise. Rowe advises that making a custom spring should be a last resort, recommending fitting an oversized purchased spring when possible.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Spring Types
  2. 00:27Types of Top Lever Springs
  3. 01:58Naming Spring Types & Origins
  4. 02:51To Make or To Buy Springs
  5. 03:20Spring Material Selection
  6. 03:49Disassembly for Spring Removal
  7. 04:14Removing the Spring
  8. 05:47Demonstrating Spring Construction
  9. 06:00Shaping the Spring Steel
  10. 06:50Heating and Bending
  11. 08:05Refining the Bend
  12. 09:17Final Heat Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are needed to make a firearm lever spring?

To make a lever spring, you will need 3/32 flat spring steel, a torch for heating, pliers for bending, a vise, and a hammer for shaping. Brownells is mentioned as a supplier for quality spring steel.

What are the different types of top lever springs mentioned in the video?

The video identifies three main types of top lever springs: the Greener type with a long arm and pin, the Scott type with two similar length legs and a pin on the underside of one, and the Continental type also with two similar length legs and a pin on its end, often found in Spanish guns.

When should you consider making a custom lever spring instead of buying one?

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe advises that if a replacement spring can be ordered and fitted, especially an oversized one, it's generally more practical than making one from scratch. Fabrication is typically reserved for when a suitable replacement is unavailable.

What are the key steps in the process of making a lever spring?

The process involves disassembling the firearm, removing the old spring, selecting and preparing the 3/32 flat spring steel, marking and heating the steel, bending it using a jig, and then refining the shape with a hammer and vise. Final heat treatment is also crucial.

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