Gunsmithing vintage 700? guess I'll try an M40 build

[AreWeNotMen?]

Hi All:
I've not been on here in years...but recently came across a partial M700 my brother gave me about 20 years ago. It's been sitting in a closet, neglected. So I pulled it out this morning and dusted it off - literally. It was/is a BDL "varminter" in .22-250, matching SN engraved on the bottom of the bolt, with a Beuhler one-piece mount, no trigger or bottom metal. I was going to sell it as I have no use for it, and then thought "hey, why not try an M40 build". I'm only thinking this as it's a June 1967 date of manufacture (from the barrel stamp), and it 'd been in our family since about 1973. I have ZERO experience with such projects, so I've spent the morning reading up on similar endeavors.

One of my initial thoughts leads me to a dumb question - I would like to retain the barrel due to it's known provenance and era (i.e., more authentic?) - can it be re-chambered/bored/contoured a la M40...or is that a silly pursuit?

Thanks in advance.

I have pics if anyone wants to see.

Regards

 

[Killswitch Engage]

I think you're going to find that's not an option for your barrel. Why not just pull the barrel and lug and save them back. Install a fresh barrel and you can always go back if you like.

 

[Rainier42]

Call Connor at CelticRifles.com. He's currently building an M40 for me with a '67. He can give you some good advice.

 

[AreWeNotMen?]

Yeah - I'd checked some years back and was told to re-barrel...I suppose I could have "replica" marks stamped in the barrel just for grins.

I think you're going to find that's not an option for your barrel. Why not just pull the barrel and lug and save them back. Install a fresh barrel and you can always go back if you like.

 

[AreWeNotMen?]

Thank you - I will do so.

Call Connor at CelticRifles.com. He's currently building an M40 for me with a '67. He can give you some good advice.