New Barrel But No Gauges

[spitfire_er]

While I use headspace gauges most of the time, there has been the occasion where doing something like a wildcat or even some of my target rifles can be properly set using sized cases. If done properly, there is no issues re-sizing and bumping shoulders.

For a test, the last 6br barrel I put on one of my rifles I set off a brand new piece of lapua brass. Very slight tension on the bolt close, tested with go and no-go and it was perfect. Reliable, no, but that instance it worked out perfectly. It can be done, but you have to know where you are at with your brass and how much of a bump you are able to obtain from whatever piece of brass you are using.

In the long run, its much easier, quicker and less measuring by just using gauges.

 

[searcher]

you could use your case and add tape to the base of it to get to that number and use your case...

I think this would get you running quickly and possibly better than guages for handloading - you just want to be sure it is long enough to accommodate factory ammo and not too long as to cause problems - assuming there is chance of you wanting to sell to someone down the road who might want to use factory ammo. My current build is in a similar situation. Took one week to get barrels from Krieger, 5 or 6 months to get action from Bat - and have been waiting NINE months to get the stock from Manners. I seriously hope I don't croak first.