If I wanted someone to shorten a Hawken barrel, and re crown it, and mill a slot for front sight who would you all recommend? At 75, the gun is a tad front heavy for this old man. thanks for any and all suggestions.
shorten, crown
- Thread starter copehill hermit
- Start date
Help Support Muzzleloading Forum:
- Joined
- Jun 12, 2020
- Messages
- 497
- Reaction score
- 714
For the sake of convenience, you might check with Track of the Wolf. They do machine work on barrels they sell, don't know if they'd work on a barrel from outside.
i had track shorten and re breach a finished barrel, had to send a statement that i was ok with the fact that the finish might be damaged. i know it had to get chucked up in a lathe . said ok. minimal marks on an un perfect barrel. all was well. they do nice work.
Thank you, I will message them. I actually believe this anonymous, unmarked gun, based on close inspection, originally came to be as a kit from TOTW. Stock design, elegant cheek piece, lock, set trigger, etc, all match with pictures of the top quality kits they used to offer. It is a beautiful gun, just need to make it fit me. Perhaps they can identify it when I send pictures to them.
this has a 32 inch barrel...want to cut it back to 27 inch
johnfrommd
Pilgrim
- Joined
- Aug 16, 2015
- Messages
- 189
- Reaction score
- 146
OP, did you ever contact TOTW?
I did, no response. Found a gunsmith who will do the work here in Maine. thanks for checking back
johnfrommd
Pilgrim
- Joined
- Aug 16, 2015
- Messages
- 189
- Reaction score
- 146
Shame they didn't bother to get back to you. I have a Great Plains that has helped win quite a few medals but, like you, I find it too heavy these days. I will probably do the job my self some time in the Spring when it gets warmer.
I hear you. I have an early Ford 8n in my shop that needs some work but it is too darn cold up here right now. Most of my projects are on hold, but I have some oak to work up for next years wood, so all good as long as I keep busy. Here's to Spring!
longcruise
70 Cal.
Before you chop, it might be worthwhile to do some math and figure out how much weight will be saved.
you have a very good point. I am still deliberating...I know that accuracy will not be sacrificed, really just aesthetics.
longcruise
70 Cal.
What is the caliber and width of the barrel?
32 inch barrel, one inch and 50 caliber. Thinking of shortening it to 24 inch to match my 40 caliber which is nicely balanced and handy to carry.
I could weigh the barrel and calculate the weight of 8 inches easily enough, but I am thinking of how much I would use it in its present weight. I have a TC Renegade for range work. Or I may just put it up for sale because it is a beautiful rifle. Thank you for your interest.
longcruise
70 Cal.
That barrel will weigh about .175# per inch so by cutting 8" you would reduce the weight by about 1.4#. that would make the total barrel weight about 4.75#
Another thing to consider would be to have it bored out to a 54 or even 58 caliber. boring it to a 54 would reduce the barrel weight to about 5.8# boring it to a 58 would reduce it to about 5.4#
Another thing to consider would be to have it bored out to a 54 or even 58 caliber. boring it to a 54 would reduce the barrel weight to about 5.8# boring it to a 58 would reduce it to about 5.4#
Phil Coffins
69 Cal.
I’d think that a fine rifle like that shouldn’t be chopped but sold. Then buy a rifle that better suits your needs. You can handle rifles till you find one with a weight and balance more suitable. Boreing it to a larger calibre is an option if you like or need more power. A larger bore not only makes it lighter but moves the balance point back a bit.
you both have given me something to think about. I appreciate the responses. And you are both correct in your opinions. I am not going to jump into shortening it right away, Boring it out is a distinct possibility. Thank you.
I would agree with selling intact. That wood is beautiful and shortening it would ruin the look. I have a Lyman Deerstalker in 50 and 54. It's lighter to carry and points well. You might want to get your hands on one and see if it's to your liking. It's longer than 24 in but handles beautifully. You will be giving up a little in quality but saving some machine work.
PM Sent.
ADK Bigfoot
ADK Bigfoot
