Parkerizing Barrels - plug bore???

[Falynx]

When Parkerizing the barrel, is it necessary to "plug" the barrel and not parkerize the bore? I looked at a new Remington rifle and the bore is dark, it appears the barrel is "parked". My local gunsmith says it does not affect accuracy, any opinions from the pro's?
Falynx

[ July 24, 2001: Message edited by: gary.jeter ]

[W.E.G.]

The Gunplumber said:

EFFECT ON RIFLING
Because there is etching, however slight, custom, match grade barrels should probably be plugged. Use a rubber stopper in both ends, and if you have trouble keeping it sealed, use a brass threaded rod inside the barrel (steel might mar) and then slide your rubber bung over either end and tighten with a small nut and washer. Chrome-lining does not take phosphate coatings and the crud that appears on the inside of chrome lined barrels can be cleaned out with patches. Standard barrels will get a bit of crud in them, but cleaning and firing a few rounds will restore the inside finish to original.

at http://www.fnfal.com/falfiles/wwwboard/messages/archives/messages/21014.html

[JimM]

We use closed cell foam plugs. You can also use wood dowels with plastic wrap around the dowels to seal. Be sure to brush/clean/lube the bore afterward.

------------------
Jim M
PCS, Inc.
Industrial Metal Coating
Industrial Metal Coating (http://frontpage.webzone.net/jimm/imc_home.htm)
jimm@webzone.net
Protect the Second Amendment!!!

[TideWater 41009]

In my opinion it is necessary, and I always plug the bore when parkerizing. Since steel must be sand blasted or etched for the parkerizing to work, I doubt that it would have much, if any, effect on a well-finished bore, but it won't do it any good either. I'd rather be safe than sorry.

When hot blueing, however, the barrel must never be plugged. The temperatures required for this are much higher than with parkerizing, and a even a very small amount of moisture trapped in a barrel will turn to steam and force out the bore plug(s) in a violent explosion, spewing 300 degree caustic chemicals in every direction.

Refinishing Guy

[W.E.G.]

btt