Gunsmithing To thread or not to thread

[fish30114]

I have a nephew that has a .223 KelTec and he wants to thread the barrel for a flash supressor. My question is is it a reasonable endeavor to hand thread 1/2x28 1/2" long of the barrel by a hand die? I have a lot of experience with taps and dies up to 1/2x18 on 4140 but never have done anything of this sort to a barrel. The closest I have come is running a drill and tap to turn some screw holes for scope mounting from 6x48 to 8x40.

Just looking for input and feedback.

 

[GrantA]

Not having done this myself, my opinion is that if it's just for something with a good margin for error like a birdcage flash hider, why not? As long as you're comfortable. But if he were to then try out a brake, and the threads aren't concentric with the bore, you'd have a problem. Also, you could end up with a crooked job. Good luck, and without pictures it didn't happen!

 

[fish30114]

If we end up trying it I'll try to snap a few pics.

 

[E. Bryant]

For what's required for flash hiders on a semi-auto rifle of this type, a setup that utilizes a threading die pilot or "threading alignment tool" will likely work just fine. Something like this:

http://www.dinzagarms.com/tools/tkp.html

If there is any likely difficulty, it's getting the muzzle OD to that of the thread major diameter before threading.