Gunsmith Pt 2: Leveling Up Your Firearm Maintenance and Customization Skills

Introduction

In our previous exploration of the gunsmithing world, “Gunsmith Pt 1,” we laid the groundwork for understanding firearm maintenance and basic repairs. We covered essential topics like cleaning, lubrication, basic disassembly, and identifying common wear points. Now, it’s time to elevate your skillset. This article, “Gunsmith Pt 2,” is designed for those ready to move beyond the basics and delve into more advanced techniques that can enhance your firearm’s performance, reliability, and even aesthetics.

Why a “Part 2”? Because the world of gunsmithing is vast. Mastery requires dedicated learning and practice. Building upon your foundational knowledge, we’ll tackle procedures that demand more precision, specialized tools, and a deeper understanding of firearm mechanics.

Prepare to unlock your firearm’s potential. In this article, you’ll discover how to fine-tune triggers for improved accuracy, customize your rifle or shotgun stock for a personalized fit, troubleshoot cycling issues that can plague even the most reliable firearms, and learn the art of precision scope mounting. Let’s get started and unlock the secrets that separate a good firearm owner from a truly skilled gun enthusiast.

Core Skills and Techniques

Precision Trigger Work: Achieving the Perfect Pull

A crisp, consistent trigger pull is paramount for accuracy. Factory triggers often leave much to be desired, exhibiting excessive creep, heavy pull weights, and inconsistency. Enhancing the trigger is one of the most impactful upgrades you can perform.

Explanation of the Skill: We’re aiming for a lighter, cleaner trigger break with minimal overtravel. This improves consistency and reduces the chance of disturbing your point of aim when firing.

Tools and Materials Required:
Gunsmithing files (fine and extra-fine)
Stoning kit (various grits)
Trigger pull gauge
Safety glasses
Appropriate punches for your firearm type
Gun-specific trigger components (if replacing parts)
Lubricant (light oil or grease specifically designed for firearms)

Step-by-Step Instructions: (Illustrative – specific steps vary greatly by firearm type)
Safely disassemble the firearm to access the trigger group. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously.
Thoroughly inspect all trigger components for wear, burrs, or imperfections. Pay close attention to the sear engagement surfaces.
Using a stoning kit, gently polish the sear engagement surfaces to remove any roughness. Maintain the original angles to avoid compromising safety. Work slowly and check frequently.
Consider replacing worn or subpar components with aftermarket parts designed for enhanced performance.
Lightly lubricate all moving parts with a high-quality firearm lubricant.
Carefully reassemble the trigger group and the firearm.
Use a trigger pull gauge to measure the trigger pull weight. Dry-fire the firearm (safely, with an empty chamber) to assess the trigger feel.
If necessary, make small adjustments to the trigger components to achieve the desired pull weight and feel. Many aftermarket triggers have adjustment screws for this purpose.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
Removing too much material: Work slowly and check frequently. It’s easy to remove material but impossible to put it back.
Altering the sear engagement angles excessively: This can create an unsafe condition. If unsure, consult a qualified gunsmith.
Using the wrong tools: Use gunsmithing-specific tools, not general-purpose files or abrasives.
Forgetting to lubricate: Proper lubrication is crucial for smooth operation and longevity.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Creep remains: Continue polishing the sear engagement surfaces.
Trigger pull too light: Replace the trigger spring with a heavier one (if applicable) or consult a gunsmith.
Failure to reset: Ensure all components are properly lubricated and that the trigger spring is functioning correctly.

Customizing a Rifle or Shotgun Stock: Achieving a Perfect Fit

A properly fitted stock dramatically improves comfort, recoil management, and accuracy. Factory stocks are often a compromise, designed to fit a wide range of users. Customizing your stock allows you to tailor it to your specific physique and shooting style.

Explanation of the Skill: Adjusting the length of pull, comb height, and cast (the lateral angle of the stock) can optimize your shooting experience.

Tools and Materials Required:
Stock rasp
Wood chisels
Sandpaper (various grits)
Measuring tape
Checkering tools (optional)
Recoil pad grinding fixture
New recoil pad (if replacing)
Wood finish (stain, oil, varnish)
Safety glasses
Dust mask

Step-by-Step Instructions: (Illustrative – stock materials and designs vary greatly)
Determine the required adjustments based on your shooting stance and eye alignment.
Shorten the stock by carefully removing material from the butt end using a rasp or saw. Lengthen the stock by adding spacers or installing a thicker recoil pad.
Raise the comb height by adding a cheekpiece or lowering it by carefully removing material from the comb using a rasp or chisel.
Adjust the cast by carefully removing material from one side of the stock or by shimming the stock (if applicable).
Smooth out any rough edges and blend the adjusted areas into the existing stock profile using sandpaper.
Add checkering to the grip and forearm for improved grip.
Apply a wood finish to protect the stock and enhance its appearance.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
Removing too much material: Take small cuts and check frequently.
Creating uneven surfaces: Use a rasp or chisel with care and blend the adjusted areas smoothly.
Damaging the existing finish: Protect the surrounding areas with masking tape.
Using the wrong tools: Use tools designed for woodworking, not general-purpose tools.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Stock feels too short: Add spacers or install a thicker recoil pad.
Stock feels too long: Remove more material from the butt end.
Comb height too low: Add a cheekpiece.
Comb height too high: Remove material from the comb.

Diagnosing and Repairing Common Cycling Issues

A firearm that fails to cycle reliably is frustrating and potentially dangerous. Understanding the causes of cycling issues and knowing how to diagnose and repair them is a crucial gunsmithing skill.

Explanation of the Skill: We’re focusing on identifying and resolving common causes of failures to feed, failures to eject, and stovepipes.

Tools and Materials Required:
Cleaning supplies (bore cleaner, solvent, brushes)
Lubricant (gun oil, grease)
Small punch set
Extractor removal tool (if applicable)
Replacement springs (recoil spring, extractor spring)
Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions:
Thoroughly clean the firearm, paying particular attention to the chamber, bore, and bolt face.
Lubricate all moving parts according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Inspect the extractor for wear or damage. Check the extractor spring for proper tension. Inspect the ejector for damage or obstruction.
Replace the recoil spring and extractor spring if they are worn or weak.
(If applicable) Adjust the extractor tension to ensure reliable extraction.
Polish the chamber to ensure smooth cartridge feeding.
Test the firearm with dummy rounds to ensure proper cycling.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
Over-lubricating: Too much lubricant can attract dirt and debris.
Using the wrong lubricant: Use lubricants specifically designed for firearms.
Neglecting to clean: Fouling can contribute to cycling issues.
Replacing parts without proper diagnosis: Always identify the root cause of the problem before replacing parts.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Failure to feed: Check the magazine, feed ramp, and chamber.
Failure to eject: Check the extractor, ejector, and recoil spring.
Stovepipe: Check the extractor and magazine.

Safety Considerations

Gunsmithing, even at an intermediate level, demands unwavering adherence to safety protocols. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and solvents. Ensure adequate ventilation when working with solvents or finishes. Double-check your work before reassembling the firearm to ensure that all components are properly installed and functioning correctly.

Finding Resources and Further Learning

The skills outlined here are a starting point. To deepen your knowledge, consider exploring these resources:

Books: Seek out comprehensive gunsmithing manuals specific to the firearm types you’re interested in.
Online Forums: Engage with experienced gunsmiths in online communities.
Gunsmithing Courses: Consider formal training at a gunsmithing school.

Conclusion

Congratulations on taking the next step in your gunsmithing journey! By mastering these intermediate techniques, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of firearm mechanics, enhance your firearms’ performance, and enjoy the satisfaction of maintaining and customizing your own equipment. Remember to prioritize safety, practice diligently, and never stop learning. With dedication, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient gunsmith. Perhaps, a Gunsmith Pt 3 is in order down the line!