No, cutting it is no big deal. I dial in on the bore, part the barrel off, thread it, and then crown it. Shoot the same size groups as before. Providing you have a lathe or access to one and can run it competently go for it.
T1D
I'll disagree that you should just immediately replace the trigger. The 40x trigger is completely serviceable and can be adjusted for a safe 2 lb or so pull (though I have mine set for about 2.25 lbs). Since you knew how to identify that it was a 40x trigger I'll assume you can follow some...
Re: Thread adapter needed
I wouldn't bother with a thread adapter personally. What I would do is modify the least expensive part (the JP brake). The minor diameter of an 11/16-24 thread is from 0.642" to 0.6494"* for a class 3 thread. For a brake you could easily use the class 2 specs for...
Re: Ground squirrel caliber thoughts, 308 bolt/ AI mag
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Whatever caliber I choose would have to be compatible with 308 case head dimensions and feed out of AICS magazines.</div></div>
If you want...