Caliber swap

[Hapnin]

Hello all.
I've got an XR100 in .223 that I would like to switch to 22BR. I hope to be able to use my existing barrel but I'm not sure of the twist at this time, I'll have to check it. I'm trying to find out what all I would have to get done and a rough price for the work. I'm figuring on a new bolt from 1 of the custom bolt makers. Hoping that it will have a tighter fitting firing pin also.
Basically, I'm looking for some advice on this. I'm planning to give this rifle to my dad as a birthday gift for dusting coyotes/ crows and such.

Thanks for any help.

 

[RJinTexas]

Steve, yes you could rechamber the original barrel to 22br and any twist from 12-14 should work. But if it were me I purchase a PT&G coned bolt, a new .250 recoil lug and screw on a new barrel. I'd also remove the ejector being the rifle will be a single shot I find it more convenient to just reach in and pluck out my spent brass. I have a couple of my xp's set up this way. Good luck with your build I'm sure your dad will be very pleased with it.

RJ

 

[Preacher]

I would think hard about a custom barrel for your new rifle.
The .223 chamber being longer than the 22BR may cause a problem with the usable length of the existing chamber..
If the existing bolt don't have a huge amount of play in it, you can have it bushed and a new pin fit to it lots cheaper than a new bolt...

 

[Hapnin]

Thanks a lot guys. Might have to start shopping for a new Krieger.
I get what I consider quite a bit of "cratering" on my primers now with less than "hot" loads. I think I may just get the new bolt for the BR then I'd have a barrel and bolt for the .223 if I ever wanted to switch back. I'm sure I wouldn't but who knows.

Thanks again.

 

[Preacher]

It's always good to have switch barrel options when you need them the most.
Sure beats buying a whole new rifle.........

 

[Hapnin]

Yeah but if this BR ends up being as much fun as you let on...I'll have no use for the .223.