Barrel fluting...

[Footedshaft]

I am looking at a project gun to lighten up for mountain carry. What I am wondering is if I flute the barrel in 4 sections does the barrel move around from the material removal? Not looking at much depth but long shallow cuts. Would not want to modify it and go from a shooter to a dud...

 

[DeletedMember275]

I'm certainly not an expert on the subject, but I will state that there are a lot of differing opinions on the subject. Some feel that it makes no difference in accuracy to flute a barrel and others vehemently disagree. Some feel that a barrel must be stress-relieved after fluting in order for it to perform up to its potential. Krieger, for instance, cryo treats its barrels twice, once after chambering and fluting (if applicable). The pertinent question, IMHO, is how much weight will fluting the barrel actually remove? Surely no more than a few ounces.

 

[TBear77]

Other options to consider:

1. Removing an inch of barrel would net a bigger weight gain than fluting. Especially if the inch removed is from the breach end. Although this would leave more of a gap between the barrel and stock than you might want. But, that brings up item #2...
2. Replace your current stock with a lighter synthetic stock.

Ted

 

[Chuck 100 yd]

The flutes have to be exactly placed opposite of each other on the barrel so there is equal mass on either side and top and bottom of the barrel. The flutes also must be cut to exactly the same depth otherwise there will be more mass on one side of the barrel than on the other and the barrel will warp as it heats up.
I have never cared for fluting on gun barrels and have never owned one for that reason. Cryo stress relieving is said to help.

 

[rugerguy]

slab side, or as noted above, shorten the barrel,,,,,,better yet, do BOTH........ 8) :roll: :wink:

 

[woodperson]

Are we talking about a rifle? Or a handgun?

 

[Footedshaft]

I am talking about a rifle. I agree with what has been suggested, just itching for something to work on. I am a machinist so precision is not an issue but have never tackled a rifle diet project before...

 

[gunzo]

Most report that a custom barrel with cut rifling, like Krieger is not affected buy fluting. On the other hand, I called Shilen once to ask if they offered fluted barrels. I was quickly told no & that if I fluted one of their barrels the warranty would be voided. They are button rifled.
Then, every brand of barrel known has been probably been fluted at one time or another with no ill effects. It's a tough question to answer. If you're a machinist you know not to subject the steel to a lot of stress or heat. Light or slow cuts with plenty of coolant should keep everything happy.