Gunsmithing new to gunsmithing

[S_Lunsford]

Hello everyone,

My name is Steven Lunsford and I'm new to gunsmithing but anxious to learn. I work in communications for the DOD and I have a strong interest in learning to build custom rifles. I have been shooting for years but have just recently started learning about building precision rifles. I have been extremely fortunate because I have had the honor to be able to work with Robert Gradous for the last 4 months in his shop and he has been an outstanding teacher/mentor. I'm usually only able to work with Robert on the weekends, but the time that I have been able to spend with him is invaluable. I recently did a little work on one of my rifles with help from Robert and I would like to share some pictures of this rifle with you. The rifle is a rem 700 5r. I installed a badger thruster muzzle brake, cerakoted it, bedded it with devcon, and installed a jewel trigger. In the pictures of the 3 shot groups the load is lapua brass, 50 grains of 748 with a moly coated sierra 125 grain spitzer. Thank you for your interest and I look forward to any comments.

 

[jacq220]

Re: new to gunsmithing

AWESOME first post. and congrats on starting the trade. it only gets more addicting from here.

 

[Mike]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Excellent. Congrats on all your hard work. Now drive it over to Crestview, FL and run it here.

www.kmprecisionrifletraining.com

Keep us updated on the progress!

 

[ackleyfan]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Looks like your well on your way!

 

[hero's machine]

Re: new to gunsmithing

You got a hell of a good start working with Robert.

 

[Mudcat-NC]

Re: new to gunsmithing

While I dont know Robert, I do know Steven, and I am betting that Robert realizes that getting to train Steven is just as much of an honor as it is for Steven to get to learn from Robert. Nothing that Steven does is done halfass.....and Mike, be ready for some good spirited competition if Steven shows up....he will bring his A game, you better bring yours.

Good work Steven. Now get back here to NC so you can show me how to use the lathes that are out in my workshop!

John

 

[jake6547]

Re: new to gunsmithing

yea man awesome start, if you have any questions about gunsmithing there are some great smiths on this site. Keep it in mind that it's up to you to sort through all the answers and not take everybody seriously.

 

[my human host]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Welcome to The Addiction. It appears you have an aftermarket trigger as well.

 

[apache308]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Well I'll be darned.....Hey Steven!!! Hope you're doing well.......and it looks like you are and enjoying making a few chips.

Warning - It is more addicting than shooting!

Call, email, or drop by anytime. I'm glad to help any way I can.

Steve Roe

 

[L.E.S.]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Steven, good for you man!!!! You're very fortunate to get to mentor under someone while starting. Many of us did not have that opportunity so take advantage of it as long as you can. Should you continue, it will definitely jumpstart you towards a very rewarding career or hobbie.

Seems to me that you have done an outstanding job though given the limited time you've been exposed to everything. It sounds too like you have the right attitute and drive towards it as well. You're definitely young enough that you could be doing this for a long time if you keep the passion.

I do have to bust your chops on one thing though.... GET THOSE SAFETY GLASSES ON SON so you can keep doing it! ;o) Would hate for something stupid to hurt the potential you have!

But seriously, your rifle and your work looks great and I'd be pleased if they were mine. I want to thank you too for your service to the DOD!

Stay Safe!

 

[S_Lunsford]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Mike, I would love to come down and shoot at your range someday. It looks like you have an outstanding facility.

John, I will give you call when I am back up that way, but you don't need to learn how to run those lathes. You just need to give me some time to get better at this and then I can work for you...ha ha.

Steve, It's good to hear from you and I hope you are doing well also. I look forward to learning from smiths like yourself as I dive deeper into this art because I know that you are a true professional.

DREZ, I will get some safety glasses on from now on, Robert has busted my chops on this already as well.

Thank you all for the comments and I will keep you updated as I progress.

 

[Beef_Supreme]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Be ready for a lifetime of learning! Excellent start!

 

[JRB]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Lt. Lunsford, congrats on your rifle work. I am sure that you will be as good a gunsmith as you are a shooter. I am proud of you!

 

[The Zebra]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Looks like a great start to a very rewarding craft!

 

[tullius]

Re: new to gunsmithing

Nice, clean work on the brake blending.

However, eyepro brother. It's absolutely necessary here. Get a dozen pairs of the clear Pyramex Ztek. Cheap and withstands the blast of a 12ga. shotgun at close range.

 

[S_Lunsford]

Re: new to gunsmithing

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JRB</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Lt. Lunsford, congrats on your rifle work. I am sure that you will be as good a gunsmith as you are a shooter. I am proud of you! </div></div>

JRB,

Thank you greatly and I appreciate everything you and your family have done for me.

-Steven

 

[deadeye]

Re: new to gunsmithing

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I do have to bust your chops on one thing though.... GET THOSE SAFETY GLASSES ON SON so you can keep doing it! ;o) Would hate for something stupid to hurt the potential you have! </div></div>

His can not be stated strong enough - It only takes one time of forgetting - please wear those glasses!!!!!!!!!