Crazy Results in Firing different types of .30-06 loads in a M1917 Enfield

[browningautorifle]

I have removed both barrels from the receivers and ordered two new M1917 .30-06 barrels made by Criteron. I will put both barrels on and see what happens.

It'll sort out all the problems with accuracy, that's what.

[fjruple]

Well here is an update. I received the two barrels from Deans Gun Restorations. Got them on today and will take them out on Sunday to see how they shoot. The barrels were by Criteron and well made. The barrels clocked perfectly and a final reaming was done with a pull through .30-06 National Match reamer. The guns were reassembled and everything went together OK. I will let you know how the work out'

Fjruple

[Calif-Steve]

My M1917 Criterion barrels were spot-on required no final finish reaming. My barreling job was done at a Gunsmithing College by the class teacher. So I know what is up. I am a little surprised to read you finished reamed it. It is very easy to head space a M1917 and get false readings. I hope you guys are right and I am wrong on this.

[fjruple]

My M1917 Criterion barrels were spot-on required no final finish reaming. My barreling job was done at a Gunsmithing College by the class teacher. So I know what is up. I am a little surprised to read you finished reamed it. It is very easy to head space a M1917 and get false readings. I hope you guys are right and I am wrong on this.

Calif-Steve--
These Criterion barrels were advertised as requiring a finishing reamer to make the final cut. The barrels were the first barrels I have seen from a maker that clocked up both to 1/4 inch from the indexing marks. Some folks like to use a standard finishing reamer. I for one like to mate the receiver, bolt and barrel as a unit. The pull through finishing reamer achieves the results. Most match shooters used this method for the best results.

I am going out this morning to give both guns a test run and set the front sight and see how they function. I will post pictures later with the test results.

--fjruple

[browningautorifle]

I am going out this morning to give both guns a test run

And we'll be here...can't wait.

[Doco overboard]

I had the same experience with the index on my criterion replacement. I then finished with a pull through reamer until the bolt closed on some HXP. Results were very good to say the least.

[fjruple]

Well folks, I am back to give you the results of yesterdays test firing of the two Model of 1917 Eddystone Enfields with their new barrels. The test were conducted with National Match grade .30-06 Springfield ammunition the ammunition was 168gr Sierra BTHP Matchkings loaded with 45gr of Accurate 2520 with CCI Benchrest primers.

The Range used was 100 yards.

Attachment 77039

I tested the Enfield that was equipped with the Parker-Hale PH5B target sights and standard front sight blade. The chamber was still a little tight to chamber. I will probably leave it alone at least for now.

Attachment 77037

Attachment 77038

After I clocked the sight in this was the results of 14 shots of NM ammo. I had several flyers as you see. The target was a NRA simulated 600 yards target.

Attachment 77042

The 2nd Eddystone was only equipped with the standard battle sights and It took me awhile to walk the front sight into proper position. The chamber was perfect on this rifle.

Attachment 77043

As you can see from the target below I finally got the rifle sighted in on the last shot, an X. Unfortunately I did not have any additional ammunition with me to confirm the X. This target was a NRA 200 yards simulated target.

Attachment 77044

Back to the range next Sunday to re-confirm the 2nd Enfields sighting. Hope you all enjoyed this post.

Cheers

--fjruple

[browningautorifle]

They look to be where they're supposed to be, more or less. I'd say this exercise was successful.

[Calif-Steve]

I took a look on the Criterion website and they are sold as slightly short. Makes sense. My barrel required no reaming at all and screwed on tight first time. Very nicely made and a very good shooter. I do like the barrel and recommend them to all.

[RC20]

I have been fortunate in that my guns are ok for TE and MW.

My brother had one (1903) that was awful.

We did get it on paper 6 inch groups at 50 yds with 200 gr flat base going slow!

TE and MW gauge are extremely important in that regard.

Cool you do your own barrels, when I change barrels its on a Savage!

After I clocked the sight in this was the results of 14 shots of NM ammo. I had several flyers as you see. The target was a NRA simulated 600 yards target.

That makes me feel pretty good, I usually can get in that area with my 2 grove JA and the original Remington Barrel on the Remington.

Both are 2s. for TE and MW.