Author Topic: can a rifle barrel but cut to 16.5 inches legaly (Read 590 times)

Mike357mag · « **on:** December 10, 2005, 11:32:17 AM »

can a rifle barrel but cut to 16.5 inches legally, I have a junker 50 cal side lock CVA that I would like to carry for backup next season. If I could cut it back to a 16.5 inch barrel it would be a lot better to carry. I currently use 100 grains of powder with a 325 grain bullet. Will 100 grains of powder be a waste in that short of a barrel most burning outside of the barrel. What would be the best way to cut the barrel with out a lathe. Gun is probably not worth paying for a gunsmith to do it.

Thanks Mike

spitpatch · « **Reply #1 on:** December 10, 2005, 12:16:25 PM »

Mike, here in Missouri you can do whatever you wnt with a BP gun.......non-regulated you know. I cannot speak for the laws elsewhere. I would be concerned with pushing that heavy bullet with that much powder, but I don't shoot bullets so I'm not an expert in that arena. Also I would be concerned about bullet stablization with the shortened barrel. Stand by though....Words of wisdom will be forthcoming from the people who do know. The people on this board are very helpful and very smart.

Keith Lewis · « **Reply #2 on:** December 10, 2005, 12:51:01 PM »

It is generally accepted that muzzleloaders are not under the same restrictions as cartridge rifles. I believe that in any case you would be legal in any state by cutting the barrel to 16.5 inches (I would be sure that the rifled portion of the barrel is the full 16.5 inches not from the end of the breechplug but rather from the front of the breechplug). If you cut it with a hacksaw and get it rather square you can crown the barrel with a round grindstone on a drill and do a fairly decent job. You will have to use a fairly fast powder like 777 with the short barrel.

lostid · « **Reply #3 on:** December 10, 2005, 05:33:31 PM »

Why not just cut the stock off just behind the hand grip,,,,,,and call it a "Pistole"??
Maybe strap it to the outside of your boot,,,,,for easy accsess :-D

:-D

Slamfire · « **Reply #4 on:** December 10, 2005, 07:02:09 PM »

I shortened the barrel on a Mauser 96 that wouldn't shoot, but I can't hacksaw square enough, so I used a giant steel tubing cutter, looks just like the little ones sold in your local harware store. I got it out of my Dad's shop after all the good stuff was "inherited" by my brother and brother-in-law. :roll:

Mike357mag · « **Reply #5 on:** December 11, 2005, 01:59:00 AM »

Thought of a long barrel pistol before but they are illegal to hunt with in virginia. Thats why cut down the rifle came to mind. It would be used as a second shot mostly.