barrel switchers

[EscapeVelocity]

For those of you who switch barrels (with the simple means of vice and wrench if I am not mistaken..?) what is the general accuracy of your rifles after the switch per barrel?

This is for my contemplation of buying dedicated rifles for each barrel or switching (if it does retain decent accuracy potential per setup). I think I am speaking mostly to Savage owners, also if I am not mistaken, but interject if there other viable options you use. I know that maximum accuracy potential is not achieved by simply "switching out barrels" and do not expect it to but again, I am just trying to weed out some options while trying to supplement another rifle while staying within my budget. For example I want to have a decent .243 and .308 in terms of accuracy but not "tack drivers". For my 700 I will be putting more money into it if need be but I think it suits well for my current skill level.

I realize there are MANY variables to this scenario so if possible adhere to the stipulation of keeping it general or average. Thanks,

Chris

Also delete or move this post if its in the wrong section, or if your just tired of seeing one like it.

 

[fdkay]

Re: barrel switchers

You will need a barrel vise and an action wrench.

If you are going to use a 700. then you will have to have a gunsmith do a final chamber ream and then tac weld the recoil lug to the barrel.

If you go the route of Savage, then you will need a barrel nut wrench in addition to the vise and action wrench.
You will also need headspace gages with the Savage. Let's say you want a switch barrel in .243, 7mm-08, 260 and 308. You only need one set of gages (go and no-go) since they are all based on the .308. If you are going to use different cartridges, say a 22-250 and a .308, then you will need aa complete set of gages for each barrel.
The great thing about savage is that you can replace the bolt head for different size rims, with a remington, you must buy a whole new bolt.

In either case, accuracy is wholly dependent on the shooter, quality of barrel, quality of loads and ability. A switch barrel rifle shoots every bit as well as a standard rifle, usually better because people normally buuy better barrels.

 

[wadebrown]

Re: barrel switchers

Another option instead of welding the lug to the barrel you can use a lug that is pinned to the action. With a pinned lug the lug is in the correct location when you install the barrel assuming you pay a little attention to the lug as you snug the barrel.

Accuracy is good enough that benchrest shooters will sometimes change barrels between relays in a match. I switch barrels a fair amount as I will often times practice with an older barrel for practice and use a newer barrel for F-class comps.

My barrel vise is bolted on to a 3 foot long 2" square tubing 1/4" wall. I slide the vise into my receiver hitch on my truck and I can change barrels in about 5 minutes anywhere. I put the tubing into my vise when I want to change barrels inside my shop.

Switching barrels is pretty easy once you get the hang of it.

 

[EscapeVelocity]

Re: barrel switchers

This is exactly what I was wondering as far as the ease of doing it and if it was worth doing. Finding the right platform to interchange the barrels on would be my next question but I will have to do some research, as im sure this has been the topic on another thread. wwbrown, I may have to send you a PM to ask about your setup if you were willing.