Archive author
Norman E. Johnson
163 indexed articles · 2004–2021
Published work
Articles by Norman E. Johnson
Installing a Forend Barrel-Tuning Device
Various forms of controlling barrel vibrations or harmonics can be used to enhance rifle accuracy, including methods of adjusting forend-tobarrel pressure. This method proved to be simple and effective.
Making a Laminated Rifle Buttplate
A custom-made laminated-plastic buttplate could be the perfect final touch for that special target rifle.
Making a Quick-Detachable Barrel-Band Swivel Base
This unique barrelband sling-swivel base easily adapts to a switch-barrel rifle with barrels of slightly different diameters.
Modifying the Thompson/Cente TCR ’83 Trigger for Field Use
Most rifles equipped with a set-type trigger are not easily adjusted for field use. With the TCR ’83 rifle, however, a simple and inexpensive temporary conversion can result in a very satisfactory hunting firearm.
Make a Universal Scope-Reticle Adjuster
Here’s how to make a scope-reticle adjusting tool, and why you’ll find it indis pensable.
A Scope-Mounting System for .22 Rimfire Semi-Auto Handguns
Scoping those fine .22 rimfire semi-automatic handguns may not be an everyday job, but if the need arises, there is a practical way to do it, and the results may amaze you.
Making and Installing An External Hammer Safety
Sometimes creative measures must be taken to ensure the safety of a firearm. In this case, a failing rebound safety was corrected simply and inexpensively by installing a custom-made automatic safety.
Making a Custom Hammer Spur
Sometimes the smallest part added to a gun can enhance shooting ease, safety, and enjoyment. If you can’t find that special part, making your own becomes the only practical option.
Making and Using a Locking-Lug/ Bolt-Face Comparator
The exact length between the bolt face and its locking-lug camming surface is an important measurement. This precision tool takes the complication out of making that measurement.
Firing Pins: Size Matters
The size and shape of a firing pin, as well as the striker-spring force, are important to proper primer ignition—especially when using the appearance of a fired primer as a chamber-pressure indicator.
Making and Using A Chamber-Neck Gauge
This chamber-neck gauge, easily fabri cated with common materials, provides a critical measurement required for safe and accurate shooting.
The Improved Do-It-Yourself Barrel Vise
This simple version of the barrel vise is cheap and easy to make, and will perform as well or better than any barrel vise you can buy.
Making a Quick-Change Buttstock-Attachment System
For changing the buttstock on a rifle or shot gun, a simple quick-change attachment bolt can make the job quick and convenient.
Making an Action Wrench For the Weatherby Mark V
This special action wrench provides a practical means of switching barrels on the Weatherby Mark V single-shot action for standard rifle cartridges.
Cutting Bedding-Pillar Holes With Precision
If you haven’t drilled a misaligned hole in a stock for pillarbedding, chances are you haven’t done much of this work. But there is a way to make a perfect hole’ and it’s easy.
Making a Smoke-Free Muzzleloader Ignition Module
Some muzzleloaders tend to smoke up the action quite badly. Fortunately, there is a simple and practical measure that can be taken to correct this that can be applied to many guns.
Making and Using a Receiver-Facing Mandrel
A precise barrel-shoulder-to-receiver fit is vital to good rifle accuracy. Here’s how this condition can be tested and corrected by the ad vanced shooter or gunsmith.
Applying Metal-Lined Bushings, Bedding, and Shims
Epoxy-based compounds like Brownells Accu-Weld can solve numerous gap-filling problems for the gunsmith. This technique, however, can add wearand chemical-resistance to the bonded surface.
Scoping the Hi-Point Model 99 9mm x 19 Semi-Automatic Rifle
Some rifles are more adaptable to scope sights than others, but most can be scoped with the help of a little creative imagination.