Fitting a smaller width barrels

[vintovka]

Have an idea project which ideally would allow me to make customize an existing ML pistol to use 2 different sized (width) barrels in 2 different calibers. Specifically using a 13/16 octagon in the channel all ready inletted for a 15/16". When i added a 1/8" cardboard shim the wedge works for both barrels height wise. Was thinking a brass shim either removable or soldered below the wood line might do it. Any suggestions? BTW still waiting on parts for the "frankenflinter" project.

 

[ghostdncr]

I like the brass idea and would probably run with that. I fitted a 13/16" replacement barrel to a 7/8" channel earlier this year and used 1/32"maple "purfling" used by guitar makers to shim up the barrel channel, which worked well. That was a permanent swap however, and it seems attaching shims to the smaller barrel would be the appropriate way to go in your case.

 

[Stykbow]

I think it’s a great idea and I’d definitely use brass rather than cardboard.

 

[vintovka]

Thanks. Cardboard was only for a test. Will probably soft solder the brass shim in 2 places to smaller barrel. Near lug and at forearm cap. The Latter for both stability and looks. Will post pics when done. FWIW I am not a craftsman like many here but more of a machinist.

 

[vintovka]

Finally got 5 minutes to take some pics. This is a basic .50 CVA MTN Pistol kit i picked up from a fellow forum member last week. It is as he got it. Its a very roughly assembled CVA kit and appears unfired. I like the grip on these and the barrel is a .40 Douglas from long ago. I machined out the under rib for the narrow captured rod and fitted a plug i had lying about. The drum is on order as is a single set trigger. Will go with a brass shims as stated above. The end result should allow me to swap back the CVA .50 and rod. I do not find the side gap that offensive BTW. The shim will center the smaller .40. Everything needs adjustment and refinishing. I have some nice sites to add as well.

 

[ohio ramrod]

I soldered brass shims onto a 7/8 barrel to fit a 15/16 recessed stock for my boys rifle over thirty years ago and it is still working well.