Reamer: Buy New or Take Chance on One Gunsmith Has?

[Phil3]

I can get pre-fit barrels for my Savage action from various sources (Shilen, Citerion, etc.), but just how good are the chambers? I wonder because just how long does a barrel maker continue to use a reamer? Until past its prime? Or...? I can order my own, but would rather not drop $150+ unless I have to, for a brand new reamer.

Phil

 

[Dusty Stevens]

The chamberer will get his reamer sharpened as needed. Some last a long time. Some just get replaced. An experienced chamberer will know when its dull and get it fixed. Its tuff to use junk so most wont

 

[Alex Wheeler]

I doubt you will see an issue due to a dull reamer. I would be more concerned about the setup, with a prefit you are getting a $200 blank and a $100 chamber job.

 

[AckleymanII]

I hope you listen to Alex!

 

[Rustystud]

You get a custom dial in. Turning, threading, chambering all in the same setup. And a custom cut or buttoned, stress relieved and lapped barrel.
Say what you want I believe you get what you pay for.
Nat Lambeth

 

[1shot]

If at all possible I own the reamer. This allows me to not only spec the chamber to my wants/needs, but also I get repeatable chambers and throats and know how many cuts are on it. The first question to my smith is, were there any issues with the reamer?

Lloyd

 

[DeltaBravo]

I'm on my third Shilen pre-fit and it shoots almost exactly like its predecessor - same bullet, powder charge, primer, seating depth. Both are 14-twist ratchet rifled (4-groove) and shoot better than I can read flags. My next Shilen pre-fit (got it at their swap meet earlier this year) is a 12-twist no-turn that I want to try out.

I don't think you can go wrong with a Shilen pre-fit, especially if you get it from Northland Shooter Supply.

Dennis

 

[AckleymanII]

If at all possible I own the reamer. This allows me to not only spec the chamber to my wants/needs, but also I get repeatable chambers and throats and know how many cuts are on it. The first question to my smith is, were there any issues with the reamer?

Lloyd

This is my may concern