Started Mark I Build

[sundance8]

Don't know about others but I use dye penetrant only. When you do the math on weld strength vs load at detonation the Bren is actually very lightly stressed. Speaks again to its superb design.
In order to get full penetration I usually have a few spots that I grind out and reweld. Happens most often on the inside. The backup bars work good but occasionally you get a small void and it is obvious.

[Midmichigun]

First class job!

I have 2 that I need to complete some day... and have tried to figure out how to build a jig. Thanks for posting yours!

Did you use filler pcs, or were you able to get it good with just full welds??

[sundance8]

Thanks for the comments, my kits have all been cut very nicely with no more than 1/4" gaps which allowed me to use backup bars with no fillers.
I would think the guys that have to do fillers have a much tougher time than I have had. Twice as many welds and the cleanup that goes with it.

[sundance8]

Milling machine speeds clean up tremendously.
Next is to machine the internals and make the striker.

[sundance8]

Making the strikers isn't too hard but is time consuming with all the cuts.
Made some extras just in case.

[Brit plumber]

Don't know about others but I use dye penetrant only. When you do the math on weld strength vs load at detonation the Bren is actually very lightly stressed. Speaks again to its superb design.
In order to get full penetration I usually have a few spots that I grind out and reweld. Happens most often on the inside. The backup bars work good but occasionally you get a small void and it is obvious.

Its a good job I'm not a welder because when ever I weld, I end up with more than a few spots to regrind!

[sundance8]

Mark I is finally finished and test fired. Runs real nice on .303 and I've converted one barrel and bolt to 7.62x54R also. I use the ZB39 magazines for the Russian rounds.