Cal-ApeR wrote:Oh you buggers. This is tempting.
So, I get my Smith to switch my original 243 to 260 or 22/250 and then when I feel like swapping I can just use my own vice and action wrench? all I need to do is switch them and tension them up? Do I Still need go/no go gauges? I assume yes. This just seems easier than first thought.
My advice, other people may agree or not.
You get your Gunsmith to break the factory barrel which on a Tikka T3 and/or Sako 85 are installed at the factory with somewhat huge tension. If the Gunsmith knows what he is doing and has the right equipment then he will have no problem doing the job and not leave one mark on anything.
Unless it is a huge pressure calibre, of those you mention is not the case, then all you need is a simple Barrel Vice and with these flat sided actions a Large Shifter (with protection in the jaws..ie leather inserts) or a Rear Entry Action Wrench and you do them up until the barrel is in contact with the action and then a mild tap with the palm of your hand or very soft mallet to just nip the two together. Nothing more in the way of tension is required. Removal to swap barrels is just the reverse, make sure the barrel vice is nice and tight (no slip) and give it a tap with your hand and it should then release. No huge tension is required and no huge extensions nor tension wrench needed.
You don't need Go/No Go Gauges as the position is already set. It's not like a Savage or whatever that has a Barrel Nut and needs to be headspaced every time. Just undo, swap and re-tension and you are away and running.
If you have a good experienced Gunsmith he will confirm all this, perhaps if you are allowed to be in attendance then he may just show you the process. Mine has been in the business for well over 50 years if not 60 odd. He is about an hours drive from me and most times for smaller jobs I am there whilst he does the work and explains a lot as he is working, just don't interrupt unless spoken to.
You may be advised to apply a small tiny amount of grease (hi pressure grease the same I use for locking lugs) to the threads on the barrel to help against a seizure down the track. It's not rocket science.
Enjoy having a Switch Barrel Rifle.