AI - AXSR muzzle replacement

[Diabolus]

I am replacing my stock muzzle brake on my AXSR .338 Lapua and wanted to know the proper procedure for completing the job so I don't damage the rifle/barrel. It's the Sidewinder from Area419 so it's self-timing which makes install a bit easier. I researched the manual and online and couldn't find an answer so hope I can get it here.

Anyone have detailed steps on the proper tools and how to secure the barrel properly to take off the current muzzle and install the new?

Thank you

 

[Dogtown]

1. apply some heat to the collar on the brake (it's probably got thread protector on it from the factory)
2. use a wrench to loosen the brake
3. unscrew brake
4. install Sidewinder adapter (wrench or socket, works with either)
5. put the Sidewinder on, threads are left handed so rotate left until you feel some resistance
6. align the Sidewinder so that it's level the way you want it - press in to lock the brake to the adapter
7. finger tight the Sidewinder

Done.

 

[Diabolus]

1. apply some heat to the collar on the brake (it's probably got thread protector on it from the factory)
2. use a wrench to loosen the brake
3. unscrew brake
4. install Sidewinder adapter (wrench or socket, works with either)
5. put the Sidewinder on, threads are left handed so rotate left until you feel some resistance
6. align the Sidewinder so that it's level the way you want it - press in to lock the brake to the adapter
7. finger tight the Sidewinder

Done.

Appreciate the time you took to wrote that.... main concerns here is how do I support the barrel? Do I remove it from the action, or use the indentation on the barrel near the muzzle to clamp it down. I dont want to run the risk of marring the finish on the bbl.

 

[Dogtown]

It depends on what you have to mount it on? I have ARCA jaws in my vice, so I just mounted the rifle and did the work from there. I’ve also mounted the barrel by itself with inserts and done work that way.