The Allure of Checkering and Its Practical Benefits The subtle elegance of finely cut checkering on a rifle stock is a testament to both craftsmanship and functionality. More than just a decorative element, checkering provides crucial grip, especially in adverse weather conditions or during high-stress situations. It allows the shooter to maintain a firm hold, … Read more
Legal Waters and Safety First: Your Guiding Principles Crafting your own rifle isn’t just a hobby; it’s a journey of empowerment, a testament to self-reliance, and a way to forge a deeper connection with the tools you rely on. The allure of creating your own rifle, a firearm perfectly tailored to your specific needs and … Read more
A classic firearm finish, bluing has been a staple in the world of gun maintenance and restoration for generations. While various bluing techniques exist, cold bluing provides a straightforward and accessible method for achieving a protective and visually appealing finish. Among the available options, Birchwood Casey Perma Blue stands out as a popular choice for … Read more
The Paramount Importance of Safety Safety First Before we even begin discussing the specifics of how to hot blue a gun, let’s underscore a crucial point: safety is paramount. Hot bluing involves working with caustic chemicals, high temperatures, and, of course, firearms. Neglecting safety precautions can lead to severe injury or even death. This is … Read more
The Function of the Firing Pin Retainer The Key Role The primary function of the firing pin retainer AR-15 is, as the name suggests, to retain the firing pin within the bolt carrier. This small, often overlooked piece of metal acts as a crucial safety device and performance enabler. The firing pin moves forward and … Read more
Understanding the Fundamentals Terminology Before starting, a strong grasp of basic terminology is crucial. Threading is not a one-size-fits-all operation; understanding the specifications is paramount for success. Thread Pitch and Diameter The thread *pitch* is the most important consideration. It determines the distance between threads. Common thread pitches used in firearms, often expressed in the … Read more
Understanding the Principles of Pillar Bedding The Foundation of Accuracy In the realm of precision shooting, where the smallest factors can dictate the difference between a bullseye and a miss, the quest for consistent accuracy is paramount. Rifles, complex mechanical systems, require meticulous care and attention to detail to perform at their peak. One often-overlooked … Read more
Introduction Why Replace a Front Sight? The Marlin 1895 rifle, a testament to rugged American ingenuity, holds a special place in the hearts of hunters, collectors, and shooting enthusiasts worldwide. Renowned for its potent lever-action design and chambered in powerful cartridges like .45-70 Government, the Marlin 1895 has been a reliable companion on the hunt … Read more
Introduction The crack of a flint against steel, a flash of light, and the booming report—the flintlock pistol stands as a testament to a bygone era of craftsmanship and ingenuity. These early firearms, used throughout the 17th, 18th, and early 19th centuries, were more than just weapons; they were meticulously crafted tools, works of art … Read more
The Core of the Craft: Understanding Drilling and Tapping At its heart, drilling and tapping is a straightforward mechanical process. It involves using specialized tools to create threaded holes in a firearm’s metal components. The initial step is drilling a precise hole of the correct diameter, followed by the use of a tap – a … Read more
