Considering having my 223 reamed out to an AI. Is this wasted time/money/effort on a factory barrel?
Gunsmithing Would like to convert my Tikka T3 to a 223 AI
- Thread starter CMH
- Start date
cheap and easy to do, and should net you a bit more speed... how much depends on barrel length, and powder/projectile selections.
I did just that to my T3x varmint, along with a chop to 20" and thread 5/8x24 for a can. my gunsmith recommended .090" freebore for my uses, he did set the barrel back a thread or so.
My hope is that I gain back enough velocity from the increased case capacity to compensate for the shorter barrel. Jury is still out since I've only been fire forming so far. I know this isn't much help...
My hope is that I gain back enough velocity from the increased case capacity to compensate for the shorter barrel. Jury is still out since I've only been fire forming so far. I know this isn't much help...
worth a shot. I know gunsmiths have turned down people from using a factory barrel to be reworked. if it was me I would look for a custom barrel that has been shot out that can be set back or buy a new blank.
Does it shoot well in 223 configuration? If so, I'd say go for it, if not I'd say no. If you haven't shot it, put a box of quality match ammo through it and make sure it shoots well. If it's not a 1:8 twist model I probably wouldn't do it though.
I personally haven't seen or had a T3 that wasn't a shooter and I had a T3 lite stainless that I had punched to 223AI. It ran the 75Amax's like a champ which is all I ever tried.
I personally haven't seen or had a T3 that wasn't a shooter and I had a T3 lite stainless that I had punched to 223AI. It ran the 75Amax's like a champ which is all I ever tried.
I'd do it. No need to buy an expensive barrel if the factory barrel shoots good. .223 AI is an awesome cartridge. When I resize my cases I usually measure .001" growth in case length. 10 firings between trimming. I have a .100" freebore and I have tons of room left in the AI mags with an 80 grain Amax at the lands. If I get another barrel done it will be with a freebore of .150" or longer.
I wouldn't hesitate then. Depending on your bullet and powder choice you're going to see a 100-200fps increase in speed (some have gotten more but it's no typical). It will hammer with the 75-80gr class bullets.
Mine also had no problem feeding the sharper shoulder either like some platforms and mags can.
You can still shoot standard 223 ammo through it any time you want with no change in accuracy, it's also how most people fireform.
