Author Topic: Would You Think This Would Work??? (Read 833 times)

Bug · « **on:** February 12, 2003, 11:39:25 PM »

I have been thinking (Dangerous, I know) about having the recoil lug on a Rem 700 TIG welded at hte bottom of the action. What I'm thinking of is a switch-barrel. It would seem that a 1/2 inch or so fillet weld, done with a TIG machine, would keep the lug from moving when barrels were changed. I'm sure I'm not the first person to think of this, just haven't picked out the flaws. What 'chall thank?,,,,,,,,,,Bug. :shock:

gunnut69 · « **Reply #1 on:** February 13, 2003, 03:29:33 PM »

It could be done. I've even seen the lug replaced with one cut to fit the bottom of the receiver ring with a right angle lug. Much like the bottom of a mauser action. This was welded to the bottom of the receiver ring. A weld on the bottom of a remington recoil lug would almost certainly cause the lug to spring forward at the top. A gap would be present between the top of the receiver and the recoil lug at that point. Also welding on a receiver like this would probably destroy the heat treat.. and re-heat treating would be needed. If a switch barrel is desired there is a device which attaches to the front action screw hole and extends forward to hold the recoil lug vertical while the barrel is installed.

Bug · « **Reply #2 on:** February 14, 2003, 04:09:07 AM »

I have one of the holding fixtures on order from Brownells' now. I was just wondering about the stresses (lug springing forward) and tempering issues you mentioned. I don't really see how the lug could actually move, if it's welded when it is held in place by the bbl. Whatever movement ocurrs when the bbl. is removed, should be corrected when another/same bbl. is reinstalled. As far as temper issues, that is why I was specifying TIG welding. The receiver, lug and bbl. could be wrapped in wet rags to prevent excessive heating during the 10-15 seconds or so required to complete the weld. BUT, that is why I am asking on this forum. I'm sure there are those out there who "Been There, Done That", and I bow to their greater knowlege.........Bug.

gunnut69 · « **Reply #3 on:** February 14, 2003, 06:36:06 PM »

One of the things done to M700's is face the receiver off square to the threads and either lap the recoil washer flat or replace it with one that is flat. This is done to be certain all the stress is equal when the barrel is tightened down... As to the welding I have never tried this so have no direct knowledge. You are welding less than an inch from the lugs that restrain 60,000 PSI from ruining your day... Perhaps you might get away with it, perhaps not. If there were a real need I'd recommend the adding of the recoil lug to the bottom of the receiver ring and retempering the entire receiver, realizing of course that all warranties are now void...