Making Springs
A how to on making V-springs in your shop.
Topic
Metalworking
Race Gun Restoration
Race guns, open guns, and most forms of competition guns are far outside my wheelhouse. I have shot in competition and even won a few pistol matches, but for the most part I used firearms close to stock and competed in the…
The Smith Carbine
An overview of a unique breechloading rifle from the Civil War era.
Modern Custom Revolver
When it comes to revolver fit, the tolerance and accuracy found in modern guns are the best ever. I won’t argue that some classic revolvers are examples of the gunmakers’ art to be admired. Just the same, for hard use there are…
Mini Mill Upgrades
Here’s how I improved my Harbor Freight mini mill.
Problems Spring Out
Sometimes luck is better than being good. Previously missed by two gunsmiths, here’s how I stumbled unto a fix for a customer.
KBC Shop Tools
KBC Tools & Machinery has been providing a variety of metalworking tools and accessories since 1965. Originally started as Kabaco Tools by Karel Bass in Detroit, KBC began as a catalog house selling surplus and English tools to the metalworking industry from…
Reader Forum
Winchester M59 I am having trouble getting a Winchester M59 12 gauge into proper adjustment. I have books that describe servicing this action throughout and I understand it, however, when I carefully set the plug in the rear of the action return…
Reader Forum
Corrosion Basics for Gunsmiths I have been an American Gunsmith subscriber for many years. Brian Smith’s “Corrosion Basics for Gunsmiths” (February 2023) was the best article I have ever read in your publications. My role with my company for over 32 years…
Gun Play
One of my fellow marksmanship team members commenting on problems with military small arms training stated a large part of the issue is, “Solders are never allowed to play with guns.” “Play” in this context means opportunities for self-directed learning, not mere…
F-Class Bipod Build
Here’s how I fabricated a bipod to improve long range accuracy in F- Class competition.
Stippling Steel
Getting a grip! Here’s how to apply stippling to steel-frame pistols.
AR-15 Barrel Extension Fitting
An updated look at improvements and new products for barrel extension fitting precision AR-15 rifles.
Reader Forum
As for material, in some cases I find that the larger pores in cast steel and stainless steel don’t take lubricant as well. Forged steel is still the best handgun material in my opinion. Use a quality lubricant such as Ballistol and…
Airgun ‘Smithing
Here are the top tools that experts use to maintain spring-powered airguns.
Springfield Armory SA-35
Springfield Armory’s modern take on the classic Browning High Power design.
Springfield Armory M1A Maintenance
Here’s how to disassemble and service the action and gas system of the M1A rifle.
Stuck Parts and Extreme Measures
Have a stuck part that absolutely needs to be removed but refuses? This guide will help you remove it.
New Life for an Old Colt
The Colt Targetsman is a classic handgun based on the Woodsman. Here is how I restored a vintage Targetsman.
I’ll Take a Slug of That
Working with old and interesting guns likely requires precise custom internal measurements. Here’s why and how to slug your barrel.
Ruger GP100 Optic
Here’s how I installed a “no drill-no tap” mount and handgun scope on a Ruger GP100 revolver to improve my accuracy.
Case Annealing
Here’s a simple and inexpensive project to anneal brass cases and prevent the necks from cracking when reloading.
Metalworking History
A brief overview of the history of metalworking and machining.
BSD Fabrication and Works
The history and how-to of a gunsmith company startup.