Bedding with Pillars?

[Josh11]

When I bed the action of my savage target, do I have to do pillars or could I just do the bottom? Or would it be best just to try the pillars?

 

[watercam]

You will see an accuracy benefit (hopefully) with just a glass bed job. I like the pillars for the solid support at the action screws plus the ability to torque the screws a repeatable amount thanks to the lack of stock 'crush'. They are not difficult to install, I usually do it first as a separate operation with the end touching the action just slightly (.030-.050") higher than the stock material. Then glass bed.
I have found the piloted drill that Brownells sells specifically for pillar installation invaluable in getting a straight/aligned hole for the pillars but if you are careful you can use a standard bit.

 

[Josh11]

yeah, my problem lies with there are already pillars in the stock. I didnt know if I could plug them with putty and still get proper bedding.

 

[BillPa]

yeah, my problem lies with there are already pillars in the stock. I didnt know if I could plug them with putty and still get proper bedding.

Josh,

Get some 3"-4" 1/4-28 bolts and make some guide screws. Cut the heads off then cut a slot for a screwdriver. Shorten the threaded end leaving 4-5 or so.

Give them a good coating of whatever you use for release agent ( I use Kiwi shoe polish or Johnsons Paste wax) then install them in the action and bed away. When the goop cures simply turn them out.

Finally, open (drill) the pillars out a bit over for screw shank clearance.

Bill