Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Gunsmithing Question about turning a barrel

Guys,

I have a M70 with a Standard (Sporter, I think) contour. Can it be turned down to something similar to a Fwt. contour? Roughly, how much does such task tend to cost?

If you can find a smith willing to do it, it will likely cost nearly much as a new barrel. Most barrel makers have a Fwt. profile in their standard offerings.

Barrel turning is not a trivial exercise. To do it in a reasonable lengh of time, you need a specially equipped lathe(CNC or tracer) which most smiths don't have. It can be done on a manual lathe, but it is a true PIA and takes a lot of time(and $).

RWO

All that and more, since overstressing the barrel is another factor.. I won't do it. Just as cheap to install a new fwt barrel..

Thanks guys. I wasn't sure if that was practiced or not. Guess I'll go barrel shopping

Re-contouring barrels is not a big deal and will run you about 120.00 or so including bluing from anyone willing to do it. For some reason, many of today's gunsmiths regard the turning of a barrel with fear and loathing.
Interestingly enough, I know of some who avoid turning barrels for fear of distorting the bore who will cheerfully have one fluted. Go figure.
I've said before and will say again, barrel turning should be well within the capabilities of any reasonably experienced and competent gunsmith. Nonetheless, many who would be capable will avoid the job like the plague. GD