M40 Build Guide
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Re: M40 Build Guide
I wonder if it would be easier to just do a duracoat or something with the proper color instead of doing a parkerize finish.
I wonder if it would be easier to just do a duracoat or something with the proper color instead of doing a parkerize finish.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Longbowmech, I really don't think, there is what one would call a proper color for the M40. Most will agree that the parkerizing on the rifle had a greenish tint. From what I have read, it seems that it was caused by contaminants in the parkerizing solution or as some folks have proven that coating the barreled action in cosmoline will result in the parkerizing taking on a greenish tint. I have actually experimented with a high quality artist oils, rubbing it into the parked metal to get the result that I wanted.
Longbowmech, I really don't think, there is what one would call a proper color for the M40. Most will agree that the parkerizing on the rifle had a greenish tint. From what I have read, it seems that it was caused by contaminants in the parkerizing solution or as some folks have proven that coating the barreled action in cosmoline will result in the parkerizing taking on a greenish tint. I have actually experimented with a high quality artist oils, rubbing it into the parked metal to get the result that I wanted.
Re: M40 Build Guide
I read some time ago that the original formula for Parkerizing had copper sulphate in it and that combined with the oils that were applied to the metal, gave the green tint. I don't know if that is true or not, just throwing it out there.
I read some time ago that the original formula for Parkerizing had copper sulphate in it and that combined with the oils that were applied to the metal, gave the green tint. I don't know if that is true or not, just throwing it out there.
Re: M40 Build Guide
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Slick66</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am looking for a checkered metal buttplate.
Are they available anywhere? </div></div>
Here you go (third item down on the list):
http://www.deathfromafar.com/htm/08_iba_one-of-a-kind.shtml
Whether the price is reasonable or not, that's up to you. Good luck.
Added: As pointed out below, you can find the proper butt pad for a lot less on GB or elsewhere if you look around. IBA just popped up first in my mind, as I know they have these older parts for sale.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Slick66</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I am looking for a checkered metal buttplate.
Are they available anywhere? </div></div>
Here you go (third item down on the list):
http://www.deathfromafar.com/htm/08_iba_one-of-a-kind.shtml
Whether the price is reasonable or not, that's up to you. Good luck.
Added: As pointed out below, you can find the proper butt pad for a lot less on GB or elsewhere if you look around. IBA just popped up first in my mind, as I know they have these older parts for sale.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Wow, thats pretty steep isn't it, anyways part # is 16601, theres several for sale on gunbroker $20.
Wow, thats pretty steep isn't it, anyways part # is 16601, theres several for sale on gunbroker $20.
Re: M40 Build Guide
mjh,
What trigger are the m40's using? Im trying to track down a trigger since I hate my xmark
mjh,
What trigger are the m40's using? Im trying to track down a trigger since I hate my xmark
Re: M40 Build Guide
Yeah I figured it was nothing special I just want something with more adjustability since my xmark has a pretty high pull weight. Just wasn't sure where I could pick up an older trigger. I have seen a few here on the hide but they always go quick
Yeah I figured it was nothing special I just want something with more adjustability since my xmark has a pretty high pull weight. Just wasn't sure where I could pick up an older trigger. I have seen a few here on the hide but they always go quick
Re: M40 Build Guide
Both of my early Remingtons had the older trigger with the 2 piece sear, tall flat safety and the wide trigger shoe.
Both of my early Remingtons had the older trigger with the 2 piece sear, tall flat safety and the wide trigger shoe.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Here are some pictures of the triggers that came on my project rifles. Both had 1968 barrel date codes, one in Feb. and the other in Dec. The earlier one had the two piece sear
Here are some pictures of the triggers that came on my project rifles. Both had 1968 barrel date codes, one in Feb. and the other in Dec. The earlier one had the two piece sear
Re: M40 Build Guide
Just wondering which bottom metal are most of you guys using, since I am using a modern barreled action, it has that plasticy look to it. Might be tough to find older bdl bottom metal. Was the older metal(trigger guard and floor plate) heavier like the Mauser bottom metal. Maybe a PTG?
Just wondering which bottom metal are most of you guys using, since I am using a modern barreled action, it has that plasticy look to it. Might be tough to find older bdl bottom metal. Was the older metal(trigger guard and floor plate) heavier like the Mauser bottom metal. Maybe a PTG?
Re: M40 Build Guide
Same material was used then as current production. Only difference was being that it was flat black on all BDL's up until 69ish then they went to the gloss that was common for so many years on the BDL. A different flat black then used on current production nowdays, it was smooth finish, not textured.
Same material was used then as current production. Only difference was being that it was flat black on all BDL's up until 69ish then they went to the gloss that was common for so many years on the BDL. A different flat black then used on current production nowdays, it was smooth finish, not textured.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Anyone got a place for a nylon sling? I got a set of rings and bases today. The stock is almost completely sanded with all checkering off as well. I'm going to take my trigger to get worked on then will put it all back together.
I have a question though other than where to get the sling. Did any of the m40's or anyone from Vietnam ever use a check rest? I know that they are made today and are seen with tape on a lot of rifles today. Just couldn't find a picture in the book "One Round War" that have an original m40 with a check pad/rest
Anyone got a place for a nylon sling? I got a set of rings and bases today. The stock is almost completely sanded with all checkering off as well. I'm going to take my trigger to get worked on then will put it all back together.
I have a question though other than where to get the sling. Did any of the m40's or anyone from Vietnam ever use a check rest? I know that they are made today and are seen with tape on a lot of rifles today. Just couldn't find a picture in the book "One Round War" that have an original m40 with a check pad/rest
Re: M40 Build Guide
Did you buy the rings and bases posted for sale here on the Hide? If so the 4 screw rings were supposed to be medium and the base listed was first used on the M40A1's, never on the M40's.
Never seen any type of cheek rest on the M40's but that doesn't mean something wasn't cobbled up by a long necked grunt needing a better cheek weld.
Did you buy the rings and bases posted for sale here on the Hide? If so the 4 screw rings were supposed to be medium and the base listed was first used on the M40A1's, never on the M40's.
Never seen any type of cheek rest on the M40's but that doesn't mean something wasn't cobbled up by a long necked grunt needing a better cheek weld.
Re: M40 Build Guide
SDWhirlwind,
Yea I grabbed the ones from the hide member. I couldn't find anything else that were close not even badger ordinance. Its not going on a six digit action until I can come across one, so it will just have to do for now. just looking to get some of the correct parts together and it to look correct.
My eyes are actually on a seven digit action for a special m40 build
SDWhirlwind,
Yea I grabbed the ones from the hide member. I couldn't find anything else that were close not even badger ordinance. Its not going on a six digit action until I can come across one, so it will just have to do for now. just looking to get some of the correct parts together and it to look correct.
My eyes are actually on a seven digit action for a special m40 build
Re: M40 Build Guide
Here's one for all of you that have your M40's done. The powers at be have given their blessing to hold a CMP Vintage Sniper Match at Quantico, VA with the Addition of the M40 and Win M70! The distances are going to be 300 and 600 yards. Lets see whose build and / or owner shoots the best! More to follow!
Here's one for all of you that have your M40's done. The powers at be have given their blessing to hold a CMP Vintage Sniper Match at Quantico, VA with the Addition of the M40 and Win M70! The distances are going to be 300 and 600 yards. Lets see whose build and / or owner shoots the best! More to follow!
Re: M40 Build Guide
i don't know if this info has been put out yet but try numrich for the swivels. part number 83350A or 83350B. i think thats the ones i bought and they look perfect.
i don't know if this info has been put out yet but try numrich for the swivels. part number 83350A or 83350B. i think thats the ones i bought and they look perfect.
Re: M40 Build Guide
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: budiceale</div><div class="ubbcode-body">i don't know if this info has been put out yet but try numrich for the swivels. part number 83350A or 83350B. i think thats the ones i bought and they look perfect. </div></div>
Numrich's website says these are both rear swivels, are they both the wood screw threads or is one of them the front swivel with machine screw threads ?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: budiceale</div><div class="ubbcode-body">i don't know if this info has been put out yet but try numrich for the swivels. part number 83350A or 83350B. i think thats the ones i bought and they look perfect. </div></div>
Numrich's website says these are both rear swivels, are they both the wood screw threads or is one of them the front swivel with machine screw threads ?
Re: M40 Build Guide
thats true. they both have wood threads. the front swivel on the 513t schematic appears to be totally different and goes on a rail or something. i'm going to use the wood screws for front and rear. may not be exactly correct but close enough for me. don't want to pay for the wichita's. if the front hole starts showing any signs of wallowing out, i'll figure something out then. but the stock i have is so hard and dense that i don't think that will happen.
thats true. they both have wood threads. the front swivel on the 513t schematic appears to be totally different and goes on a rail or something. i'm going to use the wood screws for front and rear. may not be exactly correct but close enough for me. don't want to pay for the wichita's. if the front hole starts showing any signs of wallowing out, i'll figure something out then. but the stock i have is so hard and dense that i don't think that will happen.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Does anyone mind shedding some light on how to date these redfield scopes? I have a 3-9x round scope thats glossy black. It just says 3-9x redfield on the side but no serial numbers. Its a duplex reticle. The color is almost looking purple now in parts
Also does anyone know what the distance is of the thin line to the bottom of the thicker part of the duplex reticle? Im trying to figure out the wire size.
Thanks guys! The stock is pretty much finished. Just need to finish a few spots of checkering and then throw on some color to darker up the wood.
Does anyone mind shedding some light on how to date these redfield scopes? I have a 3-9x round scope thats glossy black. It just says 3-9x redfield on the side but no serial numbers. Its a duplex reticle. The color is almost looking purple now in parts
Also does anyone know what the distance is of the thin line to the bottom of the thicker part of the duplex reticle? Im trying to figure out the wire size.
Thanks guys! The stock is pretty much finished. Just need to finish a few spots of checkering and then throw on some color to darker up the wood.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Scott,
I don't have a tombstone reticle on my redfield, I have a duplex reticle. I was just trying to figure out how wide the wire. I emailed ironsites and redfield and neither have any documentation from the vintage redfields.
Scott,
I don't have a tombstone reticle on my redfield, I have a duplex reticle. I was just trying to figure out how wide the wire. I emailed ironsites and redfield and neither have any documentation from the vintage redfields.
Re: M40 Build Guide
F2K, I don't think any documentation of how wide the wire was exists, its hards enough to date the scopes themselves. The pictures above that I posted are of the gloss and satin Redfield 3-9 accuranges,(2nd generation although an even earlier accurange was made by Redfield). Both scopes are from about the late sixites, the satin is older, the turret design is the giveaway. The early Redfields had serial numbers with a letter prefix, I know Xarmor and Scottx88 have a found a satin anodized scope as well, which was the Corps replacement for the orginal geen Redfields, although documentation on whether they were used in Vietnam is near impossible to find. I believe when I compared the serial numbers on the satin with someone elses, they were very close, in fact the same serial number range as the scopes used on the Armys original AR TEL scope.
F2K, I don't think any documentation of how wide the wire was exists, its hards enough to date the scopes themselves. The pictures above that I posted are of the gloss and satin Redfield 3-9 accuranges,(2nd generation although an even earlier accurange was made by Redfield). Both scopes are from about the late sixites, the satin is older, the turret design is the giveaway. The early Redfields had serial numbers with a letter prefix, I know Xarmor and Scottx88 have a found a satin anodized scope as well, which was the Corps replacement for the orginal geen Redfields, although documentation on whether they were used in Vietnam is near impossible to find. I believe when I compared the serial numbers on the satin with someone elses, they were very close, in fact the same serial number range as the scopes used on the Armys original AR TEL scope.
Re: M40 Build Guide
mjh,
Thanks! I was afraid there wouldn't be any documentation on it.
Do you happen to know if the gloss redfields have a first or second focal point?
Im not sure where you guys find your scopes and rifles but yall sure are lucky!
mjh,
Thanks! I was afraid there wouldn't be any documentation on it.
Do you happen to know if the gloss redfields have a first or second focal point?
Im not sure where you guys find your scopes and rifles but yall sure are lucky!
Re: M40 Build Guide
They are second focal plane. Easiest way to tell the difference is look through them while changing power. If the reticle increases/decreases in size from one power to the next it is a first focal plane, if it stays the same size through entire power range it is a second focal plane!
They are second focal plane. Easiest way to tell the difference is look through them while changing power. If the reticle increases/decreases in size from one power to the next it is a first focal plane, if it stays the same size through entire power range it is a second focal plane!
Re: M40 Build Guide
Guy's I had an interesting find today. Please forgive me if it's already been talked about.
I have an early Remington Police Sniper from the 80's. I've read (on the net)that they came with original M40 stocks and Remington reprofiled the ends of the stock so they couldn't be sold as original M40 stock's.
Well in keeping up with this thread I finally got off my ass and bought the correct buttplate for my rifle because its basically my M40 clone. It has a plastic plate with 4 small screws.
It arrived today and to my surprise the stock was already drilled for the buttplate. Check this out the extra screw holes align perfectly and the buttplate fits like a glove. Now all I need is 2 screws.
Guy's I had an interesting find today. Please forgive me if it's already been talked about.
I have an early Remington Police Sniper from the 80's. I've read (on the net)that they came with original M40 stocks and Remington reprofiled the ends of the stock so they couldn't be sold as original M40 stock's.
Well in keeping up with this thread I finally got off my ass and bought the correct buttplate for my rifle because its basically my M40 clone. It has a plastic plate with 4 small screws.
It arrived today and to my surprise the stock was already drilled for the buttplate. Check this out the extra screw holes align perfectly and the buttplate fits like a glove. Now all I need is 2 screws.
Re: M40 Build Guide
I wonder if this screw might actally work for you. It's hard to tell, but it might be the same, or close.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Remington-580-58...=item53db53b9f8
I wonder if this screw might actally work for you. It's hard to tell, but it might be the same, or close.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Remington-580-58...=item53db53b9f8
Re: M40 Build Guide
Bd1023, I know in the mid to late eighties Remington done a run like that for the Maryland state police, you might check with them to see if it was one of them unless the serial number is way off. Scott that's a great picture, a few years ago around older Remington police in 223 (circa 70's) was for sale on gunbroker, scope had a gloss accurange, the stock however did not have the schabel forend, have always kicked myself for not buying it.
Bd1023, I know in the mid to late eighties Remington done a run like that for the Maryland state police, you might check with them to see if it was one of them unless the serial number is way off. Scott that's a great picture, a few years ago around older Remington police in 223 (circa 70's) was for sale on gunbroker, scope had a gloss accurange, the stock however did not have the schabel forend, have always kicked myself for not buying it.
Re: M40 Build Guide
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SDWhirlwind</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Just thought I would post a few pics of my latest project I did last week out of boredom. Have had a terminal mini boner for the M40's since the early 70's. Just because of their 'simplicity' in being an effective tool without all the bells, whistles, and chrome of most modern day rifles. Have had stocks, some barrel blanks and a couple of 6 digit receivers for many years but financial issues, health and other things have just kept me on different paths. Took a 40-X 22RF barreled receiver a bit over a year ago and made it up a bit. Haven't had the nerve to cut barrel to 24" as it shoots pretty descent as is. Have an XR with a 24" factory tube near identical to the Rem Varmint so may decide to redo it with that? Have plans of a rimfire, 223, 22-250?, 243, 260 and 308 for sure if I ever have the funds or live long enough! Don't know why I am doing it or what will happen to them in the future but can't seem to let it go.
Anyway here are a few pics of the 223 I did last week. Receiver is a 6 digit '64 model that was originally a 222mag and I almost made it that again but thought the 223 would be a bit more 'practical'. Killed over 100 fox with this receiver as a 222Mag and when they got mange in the mid 90's I redid it to a 223AI for a couple of reasons and shot probably close to 100 coyotes with it before putting that barrel on a stainless receiver. Barrel is a Border cut rifled 14 twist 6 groove. Bought it and an 8tw 6mm both of which were intended for a rail gun and were 1.375" diameter. Recontoured it on my Craftsman lathe to Rem Varmint contour before I rebuilt it years back. Cut at 24". Stock is aluminum pillar and glass bedded and stock finish is a 100% Tung Oil/mineral spirit mix. Need to figure out what type of metal finish I want to use and find money to pay for it yet. Haven't even broken the 'cherry' on it yet.
Not an 'exact' copy of the M40 I know. Don't know if I want to put 'correct' sling loops on it yet? Thought I would post a pic of what I have done so far with my 'obsession'
Thanks,
Respectfully,
Dennis </div></div>
The early wood stocked 700P's were bought by many PD's. I got the these stocks and several more from a PD that later went to HS stocks for their early duty rifles.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SDWhirlwind</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Just thought I would post a few pics of my latest project I did last week out of boredom. Have had a terminal mini boner for the M40's since the early 70's. Just because of their 'simplicity' in being an effective tool without all the bells, whistles, and chrome of most modern day rifles. Have had stocks, some barrel blanks and a couple of 6 digit receivers for many years but financial issues, health and other things have just kept me on different paths. Took a 40-X 22RF barreled receiver a bit over a year ago and made it up a bit. Haven't had the nerve to cut barrel to 24" as it shoots pretty descent as is. Have an XR with a 24" factory tube near identical to the Rem Varmint so may decide to redo it with that? Have plans of a rimfire, 223, 22-250?, 243, 260 and 308 for sure if I ever have the funds or live long enough! Don't know why I am doing it or what will happen to them in the future but can't seem to let it go.
Anyway here are a few pics of the 223 I did last week. Receiver is a 6 digit '64 model that was originally a 222mag and I almost made it that again but thought the 223 would be a bit more 'practical'. Killed over 100 fox with this receiver as a 222Mag and when they got mange in the mid 90's I redid it to a 223AI for a couple of reasons and shot probably close to 100 coyotes with it before putting that barrel on a stainless receiver. Barrel is a Border cut rifled 14 twist 6 groove. Bought it and an 8tw 6mm both of which were intended for a rail gun and were 1.375" diameter. Recontoured it on my Craftsman lathe to Rem Varmint contour before I rebuilt it years back. Cut at 24". Stock is aluminum pillar and glass bedded and stock finish is a 100% Tung Oil/mineral spirit mix. Need to figure out what type of metal finish I want to use and find money to pay for it yet. Haven't even broken the 'cherry' on it yet.
Thanks,
Respectfully,
Dennis </div></div>
The early wood stocked 700P's were bought by many PD's. I got the these stocks and several more from a PD that later went to HS stocks for their early duty rifles.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Bausch & Lomb 4000 6x24. Shot pdogs with it last summer so had put that on. It is a 61 Model 40-X 22 rimfire.
Bausch & Lomb 4000 6x24. Shot pdogs with it last summer so had put that on. It is a 61 Model 40-X 22 rimfire.
Re: M40 Build Guide
Dennis, I remember seeing a picture you posted before of table full of stocks, did you do anything different when finishing the top one, it does seem to appear much better looking.
Dennis, I remember seeing a picture you posted before of table full of stocks, did you do anything different when finishing the top one, it does seem to appear much better looking.
Re: M40 Build Guide
mjh-Both were finished with 320 grit then 100% Tung Oil cut about 50-50 with mineral spirits for first coat and a bit less for subsequent coats. Think the only real difference is the darkness of the wood and a bit tighter grain structure in the bottom stock?
I decided to blacken the butt plate on the bottom the 223 and think I will do same with the rimfire one of these days when I get ambitious.
Now only need to do a 243, 260, 308 and maybe a 22/250. Don't know why or what I will do with them when done, just need something to do that I should have done 10yrs ago when I could enjoy them.
mjh-Both were finished with 320 grit then 100% Tung Oil cut about 50-50 with mineral spirits for first coat and a bit less for subsequent coats. Think the only real difference is the darkness of the wood and a bit tighter grain structure in the bottom stock?
I decided to blacken the butt plate on the bottom the 223 and think I will do same with the rimfire one of these days when I get ambitious.
Now only need to do a 243, 260, 308 and maybe a 22/250. Don't know why or what I will do with them when done, just need something to do that I should have done 10yrs ago when I could enjoy them.
Re: M40 Build Guide
What did you use to blacken the buttplate?
Also, what is the best/most correct method of blackening the bolt and was the shroud usually done the same way?
Thanks, Greg
What did you use to blacken the buttplate?
Also, what is the best/most correct method of blackening the bolt and was the shroud usually done the same way?
Thanks, Greg
Re: M40 Build Guide
I used Birchwood Casey's 'Aluminum Black' on butt plate. I suspect everything including the bolt shroud/bolt were all parked just like the receiver/barrels were then.
I used Birchwood Casey's 'Aluminum Black' on butt plate. I suspect everything including the bolt shroud/bolt were all parked just like the receiver/barrels were then.
Re: M40 Build Guide
good to see everyone's projects coming along. at long last, mine should be finished(besides "greening" the scope in the next week or week and a half. then pictures to follow.
good to see everyone's projects coming along. at long last, mine should be finished(besides "greening" the scope in the next week or week and a half. then pictures to follow.
Re: M40 Build Guide
scott or whirlwind,
Do either of you have a picture of the actual turrets(not the caps) of the 3-9x redfield. Mine doesn't have the number of each click it equals and im trying to figure out what it is
Thanks guys
scott or whirlwind,
Do either of you have a picture of the actual turrets(not the caps) of the 3-9x redfield. Mine doesn't have the number of each click it equals and im trying to figure out what it is
Thanks guys
Re: M40 Build Guide
Don't think Redfield actually ever put the 'value' per click on the turret. However they should be 1/4" per click! They used to put a red or orange sticker inside the cover with the 1/4" per click written on it but rarely ever see them intact. Glue got old and dry and owners threw them away.
Don't think Redfield actually ever put the 'value' per click on the turret. However they should be 1/4" per click! They used to put a red or orange sticker inside the cover with the 1/4" per click written on it but rarely ever see them intact. Glue got old and dry and owners threw them away.
Re: M40 Build Guide
thanks whirlwind. I thought it might be 1/4" but I wasn't sure. Im going to get some orange stickers and put them under the caps. Thats a good idea so I don't ever forget!
I didn't read it through the post here but did the redfields ever use the tall turrets on the m40s? Ive seen a few redfields with the tall turrets on them and was just curious
thanks whirlwind. I thought it might be 1/4" but I wasn't sure. Im going to get some orange stickers and put them under the caps. Thats a good idea so I don't ever forget!
I didn't read it through the post here but did the redfields ever use the tall turrets on the m40s? Ive seen a few redfields with the tall turrets on them and was just curious
Re: M40 Build Guide
From an older book I have "Gun Digest Book of Scopes and Mounts written by an old pdog hunting buddy of mine Bob Bell Redfield didn't have anything with a 'target' type turret until the 3200 Model in 68 which was similar to a Unertl in mounting etc. First conventional type with target type turrets was the 'Metallic Silhouette' which came out in 75. It had extended turrets marked from 2-500 meters for its intended purpose. A couple yrs later in 77 or 78 the 3x9 Accutrac was introduced with an exposed elevation turret.
So no there was never a Redfield with tall turrets but some claim the T series Weavers of that era were used ocassionally??? By the time Redfield had anything with tall turrets the M40A1 was being introduced and used. Have no idea if only the Redfields were still used until the Unertl contracts were accepted in the early 80's or what??
From an older book I have "Gun Digest Book of Scopes and Mounts written by an old pdog hunting buddy of mine Bob Bell Redfield didn't have anything with a 'target' type turret until the 3200 Model in 68 which was similar to a Unertl in mounting etc. First conventional type with target type turrets was the 'Metallic Silhouette' which came out in 75. It had extended turrets marked from 2-500 meters for its intended purpose. A couple yrs later in 77 or 78 the 3x9 Accutrac was introduced with an exposed elevation turret.
So no there was never a Redfield with tall turrets but some claim the T series Weavers of that era were used ocassionally??? By the time Redfield had anything with tall turrets the M40A1 was being introduced and used. Have no idea if only the Redfields were still used until the Unertl contracts were accepted in the early 80's or what??
