Action Wrenches and Barrel Vices

[Rustystud]

There have been a number of threads about action wrenches and Barrel vices. Here is some free advice you can take to the bank.

There are several types of action wrenches ie: external wrap around, rear entry, and side entry. There are advantages to all of them and some serious disadvantges of others.

Some facts:
1. Factory barrels are installed with the idea they are not to be removed but by someone with the experience, expertise and tools to do so.
2. Target rifles may have many barrels over the life of the rifle. When a target rifle's action has been trued up and receives a new barrel it does not need to be installed as tightly as the original factory barrel was. Factory barrels should always be removed with a wrap around wrench period. If a replacement barrel is installed correctly with the propper thread fit and lubrication it can be removed with a rear entry or side entry wrench.
3. Over tightening of a barrel can and will bruise the threads and over time will destroy your action.
4. When using a rear entry or side entry wrench be sure that is is designed to allow for the anti-bind rail inside the bolt raceway. These rails are not strong enough to bare the foot pounds used to remove or install an action to a barrel.

Barrel Vices come is many configurations: bolt down metal strap over a bushing made of steel or aluminum, bolt down aluminum v block, aluminum vice inserts, wooden blocks, and strap or chain type.
Again all factory barrels should be removed using the most rigid barrel vice ie: bolt down metal strap over bushings. Replacement barrels can be removed with any or all of the vices.

The correct combination of tools and methods should be employed when removing any barrel. Failure to use the right methods can destroy both the action and/or barrel. When removing a factory barrel the barrel maybe the least expensive component and be the sacreficial part. Often factory barrels will require a relief cut to get it off without damage to the action. Heat should be used sparingly and with caution. There is nothing worse than a gaulded stainless steel action.
Nat Lambeth

 

[shortgrass]

Sounds like good advice to me! I've seen alot of 'less than ideal' tools purchased, mostly because of price. There are some good plans out there just for the looking, of course you need the machine tools (and the skills to use them) if you are going to make them yourself. Even the Savage is easier to headspace when you use a barrel vise to hold the barrel, an action wrench to keep the action in the desired position, and the 'nut' wrench to tighten the nut, no fumbling around that way, you have complete control. Cheap tools give cheap results.

 

[NateHaler]

I suppose some barrels have vices, e.g. they get fouled easily, are hard to clean, or won't shoot straight nor last very long.

But if you want to hold a barrel to remove it, then you want a barrel vise.

And if you want a good muzzle brake, then you might try a Vais!

 

[butchlambert]

Nate,
You need another drink because that is the way I think.