The actual machining operations to fabricate a rifle barrel from a solid bar of steel are covered in Chapter 7. This chapter explores all aspects of the entire process from preparing the raw steel bar to lapping the bore after completion of the cut-rifling operation. The three operations of deep-hole drilling, reaming and rifling are explained completely. There are even discussions concerning how to tell if the machining operations are proceeding as they should, or if something has gone wrong that requires correction before it’s too late. And again, none of this is theoretical in nature. Every recommendation has been thoroughly tested in my own shop during the course of actually making rifle barrels.

             Chapter 7 covers everything the machinist must know to properly set-up the tools and machine for each separate operation. Adjusting oil flow and pressure and setting proper feed rates for gundrilling and reaming are explained. Without a doubt, rifling is the most difficult operation in the making of a rifle barrel. Steel Helix provides a more comprehensive look at this particular machining operation than you will find anywhere else. Everything from starting the first cut properly to sharpening the hook cutter to a razor’s edge at intervals during the process is fully explained. Simply stated, Chapter 7 provides the reader with the most detailed explanation of how custom, cut-rifled barrels are created that has ever been put in print.

 

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