Modern materials for barrel making -

[Cat Whisperer]

Hello,long time lurker.I have been following the materials choice dilema.Have looked at old threads on designs and construction,very nice projects!!I am going to list what current smokeless and BP barrel makers are using.I agree with the attitude to "overbuild",use sane powder charges.Hope this small addition helps in the material selection process.Also look to Oehler research for pressure testing equipment.


http://www.riflebarrels.com/products/default.htm
http://www.hartbarrels.com/
http://www.rifle-barrels.com/
http://www.gmriflebarrel.com/
http://www.badgerbarrelsinc.com/
http://www.montanarifleman.com/barrels.htm
http://www.barsto.com/
http://www.schuemann.com/ (check out the barrel steel listing)
http://www.obermeyerbarrels.com/steel.html

Pressure testing equipment:
http://www.oehler-research.com/

Charcole -  

Again, thanks for posting this list.

I just went zipping through and noticed a couple of things.

Most of the stainless barrels were 416R, which was a particular version of 416 stainless (popular but avoided by some because of the sulpher distribution).  The company that makes the 416R (rifle quality with reduced sulpher) is CARPENTER.  They also make a special batch of 8620 with their own type-name that is used for M16 bolts - extra tough stuff - takes much pressure, torque and beatings.

Also noted a lot of 4140 and one with 4150.