How to Check Headspace on a Rifle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Direct Answer:
To check the headspace on a rifle, you’ll need a set of apertures (go and no-go gauges) and a micrometer or calipers. You’ll also need to have the rifle’s bolt and action disassembled and the barrel removed from the action. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
What is Headspace?
Headspace is the distance between the bolt face and the face of the cartridge as it is chambered in the rifle. Proper headspace is critical to ensure reliable feeding, extraction, and ejection of cartridges, as well as to prevent accidents and misfires. Headspace also affects the rifle’s accuracy and the overall performance.
Why is Headspace Important?
- Avoids Misfires and Failures to Feed or Extract: Headspace that is too long or too short can lead to misfires, failures to feed, or failures to extract, which can be hazardous and unreliable.
- Affects Accuracy: Headspace that is out of spec can affect the rifle’s accuracy, making it difficult to achieve consistent shots.
- Reduces Lifespan of the Rifle: Headspace that is too long or too short can cause stress on the rifle’s action and barrel, leading to premature wear and tear.
- Safety Implications: Headspace that is too long can cause the cartridge to be jammed in the chamber, which can lead to a catastrophic failure.
How to Check Headspace on a Rifle
- Gather Your Tools and Materials
- Aperture (go and no-go) gauges
- Micrometer or calipers
- Disassembled bolt and action
- Disassembled barrel
- Measure the Bolt Face
Measure the distance from the back of the bolt face to the edge of the bolt lugs. This should be done without the cartridge in the chamber. - Measure the Cartridge Case
Measure the distance from the base of the cartridge case to the neck. This should be done without the cartridge in the chamber. - Measure the Chamber
Measure the distance from the rim of the chamber to the edge of the chamber. This should be done without the cartridge in the chamber. - Use the Aperture Gauges
Insert the go gauge (the one that fits inside the chamber) and see if it fits without any resistance. If it does, then the headspace is good. If not, insert the no-go gauge (the one that is slightly larger than the go gauge) and see if it passes through the chamber. If it doesn’t, then the headspace is good. - Take Notes and Record Your Findings
Record the measurements you took and the results of the aperture gauges. This will help you keep track of the rifle’s headspace and make any necessary adjustments.
When to Check Headspace
- During Assembly: Check heads moderate during assembly to ensure that the action and barrel are properly aligned and to prevent issues later on.
- After Modification or Repair: Check heads after making any modifications or repairs to ensure that the action and barrel are still in spec.
- During Maintenance: Check heads during regular maintenance to ensure that the rifle remains in good working condition.
Tips and Considerations
- Always Follow Safety Precautions: When working with firearms, it’s essential to follow proper safety procedures to avoid accidents and injuries.
- Use the Right Gauges: Make sure to use the correct aperture gauges for your specific rifle and caliber.
- Take Your Time: Headspace checking can be a time-consuming process, so be patient and take your time to ensure accurate measurements.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about how to check headspace or if you’re uncomfortable with the process, consult a professional gunsmith or rifle builder for assistance.
Conclusion
Proper headspace is critical to ensure the reliability, accuracy, and safety of your rifle. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your rifle’s headspace is within spec and that it will function properly. Remember to always follow safety precautions and take your time when checking headspace to avoid accidents and ensure a smooth shooting experience.
Additional Resources
- Aperture Gauges: For more information on aperture gauges and their use, check out the following resources:
- Aperture Gauge Buying Guide: [link]
- How to Use Aperture Gauges: [link]
- Headspace Calculator: For a simple and easy-to-use headspace calculator, check out the following resource:
- Headspace Calculator: [link]
References
- SAAMI Specifications: For more information on SAAMI specifications for headspace, check out the following resource:
- SAAMI Specifications for Headspace: [link]
- Manufacturer’s Instructions: For specific information on headspace checking for your particular rifle, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or contact their customer support.