Just out of curiosity, why aren't barrel channels opened up more to ensure they're free-floating. Even high-end ones run awfully close; maybe even touching under whip. Is it just an aesthetics thing? Why not just do 3/16" or quarter gap by default?
Barrel Channels
- Thread starter Sharpened Graphite
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I think it's largely aesthetics... it's a hell of a lot easier to remove material from the channel for additional clearance than it is to add material and have it look right. With the multitude of barrel contours out there, it'd be impossible to have a generic inlet show a consistent gap from the tenon to the end of the fore end, so I think it's one of those "some assembly required" kinds of deals to ensure that you can get the aesthetic that you're after.
Pure Aesthetics. I've used borrowed stocks that are, like you mentioned, 3/16" clear of the barrel on both sides. The stock came off a rifle with a barrel that never got turned down, and I needed a stock under a newer varmint contour rifle. So, the barrel went out there looking like a toothpick. But, it was bedded and shot great until I got the stock I wanted under it. It shot good then too, it just looked more aesthetically pleasing.
I have my stocks cut to clear a full 1.250 barrel. The looks dont bother me, it works for any contour. I figure it assures free floating and could promote even cooling
I get my stocks done for the largest contour that might go in them. This is my Manners T3 that was inletted for an MTU with a med palma in it. Doesn;t bother me. Also even with the smaller amount most come with there isn;t any contact even under firing if the stock is installed correctly.
Too open might allow a ton of shit into the channel that than will make your barrel not so free floating.
Too tight could do the same I guess.
I guess you have to find a happy medium for aesthetics and rifle hygiene.
Too tight could do the same I guess.
I guess you have to find a happy medium for aesthetics and rifle hygiene.
I dont know some of the brakes I shoot next to these days lift small children and toss them a few feet with concussion.
Stones, grass, etc flies and lands somewhere.
Again than it comes down to a decision....
Smaller opening only finer seive material can enter.
Larger opening may allow for more material but easier "shake out" of debris and the ability to accept different barrel sizes is a plus.
There is no one correct answer, user preference and assumption of conditions I guess
If debris is a concern you could always field strip some 550 cord and use the exterior inside the barrel channel as floss.
