Winchester factory as vs top

[andym79]

Hi guys, I have the option to pick up a couple of cheap unused Winchester 94 as barrels! Only problem is all my actions are top eject!

What smithing is involved in using one of these barrels? A new extractor groove. But what else? Is an as barrel likely to headspace correctly? I ask because I have interchanged a few top eject ones and they have timed and spaced fine without modification.

Also does anyone know if the black shadow or timber carbine 444 barrels have the thread common of the big bore, 307, 356, 375, .875x28 or do they have the standard thread? I assume the bigbore but it would be nice to have it confirmed.

Thanks


Andy

[andym79]

All I really am asking is do you think a AE barrel would just need a new extractor groove cut to work in a top eject action without needing to cut the chamber deeper?



Anyone who has done this I would like to hear from.


Thanks

[Texas by God]

Some one might clarify this but my answer is yes. They interchange; you just file the top eject slot. I read this in American Gunsmith years ago. Don't put any of the hi pressure BB barrels on a flat side 94, though. Best, Thomas.

[andym79]

Thanks, "flat side 94" by that do you mean don't put any of them on a standard 94? Mine was originally a 375W.

It is a lot more beefed up at the locking lugs. I don't think the steel around the barrel shank is any thicker though. I am guessing if it was okay for a 52,000 psi 375w it should be okay, though the 356 and 444 take a fair bit more steel out of the barrel.

I wanted to know if the AEs would fit as a barrel from gunparts cost $60. Here in Aus a blank will cost $350-500 then $250 to get the barrel fitted, if the smith has the right reamer, so it would be $600 at best.

[pietro]

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If they headspace satisfactorily w/o any other work, IMO you better start buying lottery tickets, since it'll be your lucky day............. [smilie=1:


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[andym79]

But what needs to be done to put an AE barrel on a non-AE receiver? Please advise from anyone who has done it!

What in addition to cutting an extra extraction groove?

Thanks