Carcano needs help (and so do I!!)

[StressPuppy]

I am starting to get the C&R bolt action bug (already have a Russian M44 and a Swiss K31) and there seem to be many knowledge people here, so I thought one place to get info for my FAL and my C&Rs is a GOOD thing!!!

I got a Carcano knowing it had a loose barrel. I figured it would be pretty easy to tighten up the barrel. But when I got the rifle, I found that the barrel only has one "flat" on the chamber end, so no good way to put a wrench on it.

Does anyone have any good ideas on how to tighten the barrel, time it correctly and then check the headspace? 6.5 Carcano headspace gauges seem to be like a needle in a haystack.

Also any specific tools I might need? Any tools that would be good as generic tools for bolt action rifles? I have the basics (gunsmith screwdriver set, dial caliper, monster bench vise mounted to the bench, punches, etc)


Thanks!

[RufusG]

Good luck finding headspace gauges. I looked for a while with no luck. Sorry couldn't be more helpful.

[StressPuppy]

I found a place that has "adjustable" headspace gauges. They make 4 different ones that you can adjust the length using a good caliper (dial or digital) and then lock it in (I guess) so it will work. Sounds need, but I don't know how much it costs. If I find more, I'll let you know.

http://www.manthei-mess-systeme.com/Images/lehre_im_patronenlager.jpg

http://www.manthei-mess-systeme.com/Images/lehre_mit_schieblehre1.jpg

Universal Headspace Gauge (http://www.manthei-mess-systeme.com/gb_headspace_gauge.htm)




Any idea on how to tighten the barrel/receiver?

[Story]

Places to look for answers.

http://attila.stevens-tech.edu/~glibera1/carcano/

http://www.gunboards.com/forums/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=17