Does the tightness of fit of the barrel wedge effect accuracy ? How tight or loose is to much, to the point it will cause inconsistences in groups ? Is there a rules of thumb for the fit of the wedge ? Just curious, thanks.
Barrel wedge fit and accuracy ?
- Thread starter kyron4
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rafterob
62 Cal.
As long as the wedge holds the barrel firm to the stock it is good. It can be loose laterally.
The only rule of thumb I have for wedges is to be consistent in how I insert them. I have found ‘consistency’ to be the number thing for accuracy, with some things having a big impact while others having minimal influence. To keep my wedges consistent (same direction, not flipped over, in the right position (double wedge guns), and in the correct gun for example), I pin or capture my wedges in the stock. Plus it also makes it very difficult if not impossible to lose a properly pinned wedge. The ‘capture’ pin is placed under or behind the slotted inlay, and goes through a slot in the wedge key. The pin is just visible in the slot in the photograph. You can purchase slotted wedges or alter the ones you have.
If you're really worried about it, find a way to firmly and consistently seat the wedge.
I'm personally inclined to think that unless your rear sight is tang mounted, and not both rear and front mounted on the barrel, you won't find an issue with small inconsistencies. Even if it is tang mounted, any such differences in wedge seating probably won't be the biggest cause of accuracy problems.
I'm personally inclined to think that unless your rear sight is tang mounted, and not both rear and front mounted on the barrel, you won't find an issue with small inconsistencies. Even if it is tang mounted, any such differences in wedge seating probably won't be the biggest cause of accuracy problems.
JohnnieT
Percussion Enthusiast
I recently purchased an older CVA that was missing a barrel wedge. I had a spare that was slightly undersized. I was able to snug it up with some shim stock. The rifle shoots as well as my others and I’ve noticed no movement or “wiggle”. It fits snugly, but not overly so. It can be inserted and removed with thumb pressure.
