Unit 13: Shotgun Repair & Barrel Work
Lesson 44: Shotgun Bores,Types of Barrels, Inspection, Cutting Barrels,& Straightening Patterns
History is full of knowledge, and this lesson is full of the Shotguns history. Learning about the different types, gauges, breeches and barrels, their differences and quirks in operation is really something to admire.
From single shot, double barrel, over under, slide action, self-loading and pumps, there are plenty of choices to make on what to use and how to determine what best fits your needs or usage. These are truly some of the most interesting firearms made and some are also the most reliable. When purchasing a used shotgun, there are reasons for a thorough inspection, for instance the breech and barrel all take a beating during use and later in the Winchester Model it is necessary to inspect the trigger assembly.
In this lesson we also learn how to remove a dent and/or a bend in a barrel, tools needed and how to determine if it is too much to repair. The Damascus barrels are really tricky and should be a wall hanger. This lesson dives into the use of chokes, ribs, chambers and shot sizes. All a very good learning experience.
I really enjoyed this lesson but, this is one of if not the longest lessons so far, it is very detailed as to what to expect when purchasing a used shotgun, how to repair.
Lesson 45: Parker Double Barrel Shotgun
This is a short lesson and a history on “Old Reliable”. The Parker double barrel shotguns were one of if not the most reliable shotguns out there. Developed in the Civil War and used up through WWII. Unfortunately, they were discontinued after WWII. The rest of the lesson is the tear down of this firearm.
Lesson 46: Savage Model 24 Combination Gun
As like the last lesson this one is for the Savage Model 24 combination Gun. This is a little bit different as this is an over under style firearm. Simply it is a duel purpose rifle/shotgun that was used as a survival weapon for the US Air Force during WWII.
Lesson 47: Installing Rim Fire Barrels
Chambering, Headspace, Breeching Standard Replacement and Custom Barrels.
Proper cleaning is always essential to keeping firearms functioning properly, however, replacing a barrel may sometimes become necessary. With the many types of ways barrels are attached and held in place, it is best to make sure a replacement is necessary. A new barrel does not always guarantee a perfect a “bolt on and function perfectly” piece. There will most likely be tweaks made to the alignment and fitting before this will be a reliably accurate firearm.
Overall this is a very educational unit and is one of the best so far. I am looking forward to finishing the rest.
Written by J. Jacobs, The MGS Experience Student
