Barrel steel needs to have just the right mechanical properties in order to contain the pressure of the burning propellant gases. The steel must also be as easy to machine as possible if the riflesmith is to expect good tool life and a smooth machined finish inside the cut-rifled bore. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find a steel alloy that is both strong and easily machined. This presents the barrel maker with a difficult choice: which is most important, machinability or strength? Chapter 8 delves into the physical characteristics of five classes of commonly used barrel alloys to find the correct choice for any rifle.

             Barrel steel can be hardened in one (or more) of three ways: heat-treatment, work-hardening and precipitation hardening. Which method is used to harden a barrel blank will depend upon the specific alloy’s chemical composition. Chapter 8 takes a look at the chemical composition, hardening treatments and mechanical properties of three classes of carbon steel and two classes of stainless steel. All five types of steel have been, and continue to be, used to fabricate rifle barrels. It is up to each individual barrel maker to decide which type of steel alloy will best suit his needs. Steel Helix provides the information needed to make an informed decision when choosing a steel alloy for rifle barrels. Chapter 8 examines the following steel alloys:

 

· 12L14 resulfurized and rephosphorized steel (muzzleloaders only)

· 1137 & 1144 resulfurized steel (muzzleloaders only)

· 4140 chromium-molybdenum steel

· 416R & 410 martensitic stainless steel

· 630 (17-4) precipitation-hardening stainless steel

 

Be sure to visit the Home Page to view a free PDF Website Preview of Steel Helix.