Gunsmithing Barrel blank storage

[WeiserBucks]

I've always purchased complete rifles , until now I haven't had a blank laying around. Is there a "correct" way to store them ? Vertical? Horizontal? Does it matter ?

Only reason I ask is because I know some things , like engine crankshafts and other precision parts will deform slightly under their own weight over time if not stored properly.

 

[Leland22]

Are you asking if the barrel is going to warp if you store it vertically? I doubt it... I just leave them in the shipping tube and set them in the safe,or closet until ready to use. I know a few of the smith's here use schedule 40 pvc glued together in a honeycomb and store the blanks in those..horizontally.
I would be more concerned about the environment they are being stored in..ie: to humid.

 

[WeiserBucks]

It will definitely be stored in my safe , just wasn't sure if there was a right or wrong position to store them in , vertical vs horizontal

 

[Leland22]

If you have the room I would likely store them horizontally,but I truly don't see an issue storing them vertically either..maybe some of the more experienced guys will chime in. Again I don't see a barrel deflecting that much,if at all..you will get more from a five shot string.
Edited to add, I stored a #4 contour barrel for over a year vertically,and it shoots clover leaves at 200 yards...so I think it matters not.

 

[WeiserBucks]

Thanks for the information

 

[Supersubes]

There's no proper way. No chance of the thing warping. Ive never seen a 416 stainless barrel rust while just sitting there, im in southern california though. 416 is on the rusty end of the stainless spectrum.