Gunsmithing Shouldered Prefit Barrel Headspace

[spiche]

So I recently picked up a new Bighorn Origin and a shouldered prefit barrel in 6mm Creedmoor.
I started assembling today, torquing the barrel into the receiver to the specified 75 ft-lbs.

I then checked headspace using my 6.5mm creedmoor Go and No-Go gauges made by Forster. From my reading, it is acceptable to use the 6.5cm gauge in the 6mm creedmoor. The headspace value is the same.

My bolt wouldn't close on the go gauge. I had some virgin peterson brass that did chamber and close, however it felt a touch tight. Measuring using a headspace comparitor it looked like the brass was about .002" shorter than my go gauge.

I would think the only ways to make the gage fit would be to cut the chamber a smidge deeper, or a thicker recoil lug, correct?


Would running the gun as-is with slightly short headspace cause issues? I only plan on handloading anyways, as my freebore isn't cut deep enough to run the Hornady factory ELD-M.

Thanks in advance for the help. This place has been a great resource and I have learned tons already.

Steve

 

[Mordamer]

If you are only planning on handloading then the .001-.002" short headspace should not cause too many issues. I'd shoot it as is if the brass Chambers. As long as your full length sizing die can push the shoulder back .002" after firing then you will be good to go. Most factory ammo would fit that chamber. In my experience factory ammo is .002-.004" shorter than a go gauge. This is consistent with your measurements.

 

[Wannashootit]

For me, bolt closing with light resistance is perfect.
You handload, so as long as you can get the necessary shoulder bump there's no concern with "too little" headspace.
"Zero" headspace could at worst mean being unable to chamber a cartridge that might be a thou or two long in shoulder datum. Setting your sizing die so that it cams over hard for maximum shoulder bump if it isn't already will help.

It's really easy to overshoot one or two thou with a reamer requiring a re-do, I'd leave it be unless you have consistent problems chambering your rounds.

 

[spiche]

Thanks guys. My gut feel was that it would be fine, but wanted to get a consensus from the hive mind.

I just need to get my stock back from manners now and I will be in business.

Steve

 

[SporterII]

I use my brass as a guage to assemble barrel nut assembly's.
That is essentially what you have.