How to correct bad barrel threads

[338x]

So I have an expensive Proof Carbon wrapped barrel chambered in 28 Nosler. The threads on the shank are loose (bad Gunsmithing…) and I also suspect issues with the chambering. It installed on a Savage action and presently use a barrel but, it’s a large shank so 1.120 X 20 tpi . I don’t have enough “meat” to cut the tenon and re-thread and Re-chamber. I can removed a portion of the tenon and shoulder the barrel instead of using the barrel but but the real problem is how to take care of the bad threads? So far the best option IÂ’m thinking is cut down the tenon and install a sleeve.

I’m seeking some advices. Any suggestions? I have now access to a precision lathe and someone who knows how to operate it.

Thanks in advance. Cheers!!

 

[tiriaq]

For what cartridge is it chambered? The chamber diameter might limit the diameter to which the shank could be turned for a sleeve to be installed.

What is wrong with the chamber? Is there enough shank to shorten the barrel sufficiently to allow the chamber to be recut correctly?

Apart from the chamber issue, the easiest way to make the barrel usable would be to recut the threads to 1.06-20 and install the barrel on a small shank action.

 

[Dwayne Cyr]

This is just my opinion but, too loose is better than too tight. I have a Bartlein 6ppc barrel with 1072 rounds through it that has sloppy thread fit. It shot like a house on fire right from the start and has won me a lot wood at small club matches. I think once its tightened up properly it will center up and if its a good barrel it will shoot.

 

[guntech]

So I have an expensive Proof Carbon wrapped barrel chambered in 28 Nosler. The threads on the shank are loose (bad Gunsmithing…) and I also suspect issues with the chambering. It installed on a Savage action and presently use a barrel but, it’s a large shank so 1.120 X 20 tpi . I don’t have enough “meat” to cut the tenon and re-thread and Re-chamber. I can removed a portion of the tenon and shoulder the barrel instead of using the barrel but but the real problem is how to take care of the bad threads? So far the best option IÂ’m thinking is cut down the tenon and install a sleeve.

I’m seeking some advices. Any suggestions? I have now access to a precision lathe and someone who knows how to operate it.

Thanks in advance. Cheers!!

Loose threads are not necessarily an indication of bad gunsmithing. A "v" thread centers itself when tightened. I guess it would depend on how loose they are... but it should not affect accuracy if it is tight on the action.

A tenon can be turned smaller in diameter and a fine threaded 'sleeve' or bushing threaded on and Loctited in place and then turned and threaded for the action.

Here is an example of that done on a 700.

 

[David L]

Nice work,

 

[338x]

For what cartridge is it chambered? The chamber diameter might limit the diameter to which the shank could be turned for a sleeve to be installed.

What is wrong with the chamber? Is there enough shank to shorten the barrel sufficiently to allow the chamber to be recut correctly?

Apart from the chamber issue, the easiest way to make the barrel usable would be to recut the threads to 1.06-20 and install the barrel on a small shank action.

As stated, the cartridge is 28 Nosler. Yes by removing the use of the barrel nut and shortening of the tenon I will have enough to rechamber. Going to a small shank is not an option as I need a long action and my other Savage actions are all short.

 

[Potashminer]

OP - I do not do this, like other posters have, but perhaps you are jumping something that the issue is with the barrel - could also be with the threads in the receiver? Is not clear from your post how you determined the problem to be with the threads on the barrel tenon - if you said how you did that, my apologies for not understanding.

 

[bearhunter]

OP, There are ways to utilize that barrel without having to rethread the tenon or sleeve it.

IMHO, your biggest concern is the sloppy chamber??

Even that isn't really much of a concern, unless you don't reload.

Your cases will be fire formed to the dimensions of your existing chamber after the first firing.

You don't really describe what you mean by "loose"

Are you saying there isn't any resistance when the barrel tenon is being turned into the receiver, or that it's slopping around in the receiver???

I have run across this before, with a similar barrel type, which was for sale very cheap on a gun show table in Saanich a few years ago.

The threads were cut several thou to deep and the result was an undersized tenon.

I was worried there may not be enough metal contacting to be safe while shooting.

I can see such a concern with the 28 Nosler.

This is what I did, I coated the receiver threads with a spray on, carbon base release agent.

Then, I degreased the threads on the tenon and applied Devcon STEEL Putty.

I screwed the barrel/receiver together, until I was happy with the "crush" and gave it a week to cure.

That rifle is still shooting very well, with no signs of loosening or losing accuracy.

It's chambered for the 280 Remington and the fellow that owns it, swears he'll go to his grave before selling it.

Your Savage, with it's "locking nut" should be even easier to do.

Just make sure you apply the release agent to any threads you don't want the Putty sticking to.

It's easy to remove the barrel by applying just enough heat to soften the Putty, then a bit of clean up of the receiver threads and jam nut, should do it if you desire to change out the barrel.