Which "flavor(s)" of Devcon? And is there a >chance to do a series of standardized tests, like dropping the >rifle from various specific angles onto a hard surface?
You supply the rifle, I'd be happy to drop it!
>That & the various bedding compounds solvent resistances as >well. Also, how well a rifle holds it's zero after removal >from & reinatallation into the stock.
1) Not going to test solvents, in discussion with several vendors it's already documented. NEVER leave solvents on a weapon after cleaning for ANY reason.
2) Taking a bedded rifle out of the stock and maintaining zero depends to a degree on the compound you're using. It's one of the reasons I use ACRAGLAS on 14 type (typically) because it's strong enough to stand up to take downs. My Devine bedding lasted 2 and 1/2 barrels without ever touching the bedding or loosing zero. BUT! I know how to take bedded rifles out of the stock without stressing the bedding. Yes, this is a factor people don't think about. Best bet is to turn the rifle over and tap the butt on a padded surface to let the action work itself out of the bedding without stressing the bedding. On a Garand or 14 type, it's unhook the trigger group and ease it out, then turn the rifle over and tap the butt on a padded surface and allow the action to ease out a bit at a time. Works nicely and has since I was taught this one in 75. When I bedded the Devine rifle, I was told "You have three times to take it out of the stock before you need to touch or rebed the action. They didn't factor in that I used ACRAGLAS. It stands up.
But I'm interested in a number of the compounds I have and will report it as the tests get done. Right now I'm waiting on some small boxes that are perfect for casting blocks.
I don't like Devcon putty... but I am interested in some of the new versions. I used Devcon on M14s years ago since they had to be done Mil Spec. Fenwall wasn't available per the USMTU manual and the USMC NM specs were slightly different anyway.