Introduction
The world of firearms possession typically presents a want for versatility, adaptability, and personalization. For homeowners of New England Firearms (NEF) rifles and shotguns, this want is quickly achievable due to a key design function: interchangeable barrels. NEF firearms, notably these just like the Handi-Rifle and Pardner sequence, have gained a fame for his or her affordability and, crucially, the convenience with which their barrels could be swapped. This functionality unlocks an enormous array of prospects, permitting you to rework a single firearm right into a software for numerous functions, from looking completely different recreation to having fun with the problem of goal capturing.
The fantastic thing about barrel swapping lies in its practicality. It gives the flexibility of proudly owning a number of firearms with out the related value. As a substitute of buying separate rifles or shotguns for every desired caliber or utility, you possibly can merely swap the barrel. This considerably reduces the monetary burden whereas nonetheless permitting you to tailor your firearm to particular wants. Whether or not you are a seasoned hunter searching for a special caliber for a particular hunt or a leisure shooter desirous to experiment with numerous barrel lengths, the New England Firearms barrel swap course of affords a compelling answer.
This text serves as a complete, step-by-step information to performing a profitable New England Firearms barrel swap. We are going to stroll you thru the method, emphasizing security precautions, itemizing the mandatory instruments and supplies, and offering clear, concise directions. From eradicating the present barrel to putting in the brand new one and performing post-installation checks, we’ll cowl each facet of the process. We’ll additionally deal with widespread points and provide troubleshooting ideas to make sure a clean and profitable expertise. By the top of this information, you may have the information and confidence to carry out your personal barrel swaps, unlocking the total potential of your NEF firearm.
Security First
Earlier than embarking on any gun upkeep or modification, security is paramount. Firearms are inherently harmful, and correct dealing with is essential to forestall accidents and guarantee your well-being and the security of these round you. The data supplied on this article is meant for informational functions solely and shouldn’t be thought of an alternative choice to skilled gunsmithing companies. At all times prioritize security above all else.
The very first and most important step earlier than commencing any work is to confirm that the firearm is unloaded. This requires greater than a cursory look. Open the motion totally, visually examine the chamber, and be certain that no ammunition is current. Then, test the journal (if relevant) to make sure it is empty. At all times deal with each firearm as if it have been loaded, no matter your earlier information of its state.
Work in a well-lit, clear, and uncluttered workspace. A tidy surroundings reduces the chance of shedding small elements and gives a clearer view of the duties at hand. Keep away from working in areas the place kids or pets are current.
At all times put on acceptable eye safety, equivalent to security glasses. Small metallic fragments or different particles could be ejected throughout the course of, doubtlessly inflicting critical eye accidents.
Develop a mindset of duty when dealing with firearms. At all times level the muzzle in a secure course, away from your self and others. By no means level a firearm at something you aren’t keen to destroy. Deal with firearms with the utmost care and respect. Make sure you perceive the right use of the firearm earlier than dealing with or making an attempt any modifications.
Instruments and Supplies Required
To efficiently full a New England Firearms barrel swap, you have to a set of particular instruments and supplies. Having the precise tools won’t solely make the method simpler but in addition decrease the chance of damaging your firearm.
You will want the proprietor’s guide on your particular NEF mannequin. The guide will present particular details about your mannequin, together with directions for disassembly and reassembly, in addition to torque specs for any screws or fasteners. This info is invaluable for a profitable barrel swap.
Additionally, you will require a set of screwdrivers acceptable on your firearm. The screws utilized in firearms are sometimes small and require particular screwdrivers to keep away from injury. A set of gunsmithing screwdrivers is extremely advisable. These screwdrivers typically function exactly floor ideas that match screw slots completely, decreasing the chance of stripping the screw heads.
Whereas not at all times needed, a bench vise could be extremely useful. A vise gives a steady platform to carry the receiver whilst you work, liberating up your fingers and making the barrel elimination and set up course of a lot simpler. Ensure that to make use of protecting jaw covers on the vise to forestall any scratches or injury to the firearm’s end.
For exact barrel set up, a torque wrench is a beneficial software. Many firearms producers specify torque values for screws and fasteners. Utilizing a torque wrench ensures that you simply tighten the screws to the right specs, which is essential for sustaining accuracy and guaranteeing the barrel is securely connected.
Cleansing provides are important for sustaining the cleanliness and performance of your firearm. This consists of gun cleaner, gun oil, and cleansing patches. These shall be used to wash and lubricate the motion and the brand new barrel earlier than set up.
You may also think about including some optionally available instruments to your arsenal. A gunsmithing hammer could be helpful for tapping parts or adjusting pins. A pin punch set can be very useful for driving out pins.
Probably the most important materials, in fact, is the substitute barrel. Make sure that the brand new barrel is suitable along with your particular NEF receiver and that it is the appropriate caliber and configuration on your meant objective. Buy the barrel from a good supply to ensure its high quality and compatibility.
Lastly, thread locker could be useful for securing screws, notably these which can be subjected to vibration or stress. Observe the producer’s directions for making use of the thread locker.
Barrel Removing – Step by Step
The method of eradicating the present barrel from a New England Firearms firearm can differ barely relying on the particular mannequin. Nevertheless, the final rules stay the identical.
Earlier than beginning, double-check to make sure the firearm is unloaded and the work space is secure and clear.
Disassemble the firearm to the purpose the place the barrel could be accessed. The precise disassembly process will differ primarily based in your firearm’s mannequin. Seek the advice of your proprietor’s guide for detailed directions. Often, this may contain eradicating the forearm (if relevant), the forend, and any related screws.
Find and loosen the retaining screws, pins, or latches that safe the barrel to the receiver. NEF firearms usually make the most of a mixture of those retention strategies. The precise quantity and placement of those fasteners will differ relying in your particular mannequin.
Rigorously start loosening any screws. Use the right sized screwdriver, and apply regular, constant stress. Watch out to not strip the screw heads. If a screw is tough to loosen, apply penetrating oil (e.g., Kroil or PB Blaster) and let it soak for some time earlier than making an attempt to loosen it once more.
As soon as all of the retaining screws or fasteners are loosened, now you can rigorously take away the barrel from the receiver. This will likely require a mild tug or faucet with a soft-faced hammer. Take care to not injury the receiver or barrel throughout this course of. Guarantee all unfastened elements are saved safely.
If you’re having issue eradicating the barrel, re-inspect the firearm, test to make sure that you could have totally and appropriately eliminated all related screws and pins, and see when you may need to rigorously faucet the barrel out of the receiver utilizing a soft-faced hammer.
As soon as eliminated, retailer the eliminated barrel safely. Label it with the caliber and any related info. It is at all times a good suggestion to wash the barrel and apply a lightweight coat of gun oil to forestall rust.
Barrel Set up – Step by Step
Now that the outdated barrel has been eliminated, the method of putting in the brand new barrel can start.
Start by cleansing and inspecting each the brand new barrel and the receiver. This step ensures that there aren’t any obstructions or particles that might intervene with correct barrel operate. You need to use gun cleaner and a cleansing rod with patches to wash the bore of the brand new barrel.
Rigorously align the brand new barrel with the receiver. Ensure that the barrel is seated correctly and that it is aligned with the suitable options on the receiver.
As soon as aligned, safe the barrel to the receiver utilizing the retaining screws, pins, or latches. Once more, seek the advice of your proprietor’s guide for the particular process on your mannequin. Begin by hand-tightening all screws.
If you’re utilizing thread locker, apply a small quantity to the threads of the screws in line with the producer’s directions.
Tighten the fasteners to the producer’s advisable torque. If a torque wrench is accessible, use it to tighten the screws exactly. If a torque specification is just not supplied, tighten the screws firmly however not excessively. Overtightening screws can injury the firearm.
As soon as all fasteners are securely tightened, be certain that the barrel is correctly seated. The barrel ought to be flush with the receiver, and there ought to be no gaps or misalignment.
Put up-Set up Checks and Testing
After the brand new barrel is put in, it’s very important to carry out a number of checks and exams to make sure that it’s functioning appropriately and safely.
First, confirm that the barrel is securely connected. Make sure that all retaining screws, pins, or latches are correctly tightened and that the barrel is firmly seated within the receiver.
Rigorously test for any obstructions within the barrel bore. Look by the bore from each ends to make sure that there aren’t any blockages or particles. A bore gentle could be helpful for this inspection.
Carry out operate testing. First, dry-fire the firearm a number of occasions to test the firing pin operate. Make sure that the firing pin strikes the primer correctly.
Cycle the motion to make sure that the firearm features appropriately and easily. In case your firearm is a bolt-action, be certain the bolt cycles easily. If it’s a lever-action, make sure the lever features easily and totally cycles cartridges. If it’s a break-action, be certain it closes securely.
After getting accomplished the preliminary checks and really feel assured within the set up, take a look at fireplace the firearm with stay ammunition in a secure surroundings. This could at all times be finished at a capturing vary or different acceptable location. Observe all security guidelines for dealing with firearms, and be certain that your goal is much sufficient away to permit for the gap of the bullet, and secure from any obstacles or folks. Observe the firearm for any malfunctions or uncommon habits. Additionally, test the accuracy of the firearm.
Frequent Points and Troubleshooting
Even when following the directions rigorously, you would possibly encounter some widespread points throughout a New England Firearms barrel swap. Understanding these potential issues and their options may help you overcome any difficulties.
One widespread difficulty is that the barrel doesn’t match correctly. This may occur if the brand new barrel is just not a direct substitute on your mannequin or if it has been broken throughout transport or dealing with. If the barrel would not match, test the barrel’s mannequin quantity and dimensions in opposition to these of your firearm and call the provider or producer. Rigorously examine the barrel for any indicators of harm.
One other widespread drawback is stripped screws. This can be a widespread difficulty when screws are overtightened or when the unsuitable screwdriver is used. Should you strip a screw, use a screw extractor. Exchange the screw instantly.
Misfires can happen after a barrel swap. These could be brought on by a number of components, together with a misaligned firing pin, an improperly put in barrel, or an issue with the ammunition. Totally recheck the barrel set up and examine the firing pin operate. Take a look at with completely different ammunition to rule out ammunition issues.
Poor accuracy could be one other consequence of a barrel swap. If the barrel is just not correctly put in, it is probably not aligned appropriately. Ensure that all of the steps have been adopted, all screws correctly tightened, and that the barrel is aligned appropriately.
Ideas for Success and Issues
To make sure a profitable New England Firearms barrel swap, comply with the following pointers:
Take your time and be affected person. Speeding the method can result in errors and injury to your firearm.
Learn the directions rigorously earlier than starting. Familiarize your self with the method and the instruments and supplies wanted.
Take detailed notes. Doc every step of the method, and make notes about any difficulties encountered.
Take photographs or movies. Visible aids could be useful for reassembly and for documenting the method.
If you’re uncertain about any step, seek the advice of a gunsmith.
Rigorously analysis and select your substitute barrel.
Bear in mind to have correct upkeep carried out.
Relating to the selection of substitute barrels, there are various producers and choices to pick from. Analysis completely different calibers, barrel lengths, and options to search out the one which most accurately fits your wants. At all times buy barrels from respected producers.
Bear in mind to adjust to all relevant legal guidelines and laws. Perceive and adjust to all federal, state, and native legal guidelines regarding firearms possession, barrel modifications, and any associated issues.
Conclusion
The New England Firearms barrel swap course of affords an easy and cost-effective strategy to improve the flexibility and performance of your firearm. By following these step-by-step directions, you possibly can efficiently swap barrels, permitting you to tailor your rifle or shotgun to particular looking eventualities, goal capturing disciplines, or just to experiment with completely different calibers.
Bear in mind, security is paramount. At all times prioritize secure gun dealing with practices, and double-check that your firearm is unloaded earlier than beginning any work.
The flexibility to swap barrels is a defining function of NEF firearms. Make the most of this unimaginable alternative to discover the various world of capturing sports activities, uncover new looking functions, or just refine your abilities.
If you’re contemplating a New England Firearms barrel swap, do not forget that the right instruments and the next of those steps will make the method a lot smoother. Whether or not you might be an skilled shooter or simply beginning out with firearms, this can be a undertaking that may open up a brand new world of customization and pleasure of your firearms.
