Question re: installing shouldered prefit

catalyst81

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May 6, 2012
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When installing a shouldered pre fit barrel, do any of you put anti-seize on the shoulder? I contacted Bighorn asking for torque specs (Origin action) for my 300 PRC, and they said they usually use 75 ft pounds and recommended some anti-seize on the shoulder of the barrel if I go any higher than that when I torque it down or I might shear the locating pin on the recoil lug.

I've been watching youtube installs and once or twice on videos I've watched they mentioned you want a metal to metal connection at the shoulder. It's my first experience with pre fits, so I'm a little nervous and want to make sure I do it right. I was considering 85 ft pounds with a little anti-seize on the shoulder (I assume Bighorn knows what they're talking about over some youtubers). I've read you want a little more for torque for magnums. Or would I be OK just using 75 ft pounds?
 
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Anti-seize is always a good practice, and putting it on the shoulder will not hurt a thing. Torque it to 100 ft/lbs if you want(what I do). Doesn’t matter much. Ive never heard any rational for additional torque for magnums, although I’ve seen it on the info Zermat sends with the actions.
 
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I torque my barrels 75-100 ft-lbs, using a copper based anti-seize on the threads. As you screw the barrel into the action, some anti-seize will squeeze onto the shoulder. You don't need much anti-seize either, just a very light application.
 
I use a little anti seize on threads and as kthomas said some will come out on shoulder. Have changed barrels on my origin several times and never used a torque wrench, just 1/2 inch drive ratchet cranked tight.

Probably in the minority on that but always shoots great.