Krag Collectors Association Forum Archive
Firearms >> U.S. Military Krags >> Criterion Barrels
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Message started by S99VG on May 21st, 2020 at 3:16pm

Title: Re: Criterion Barrels
Post by butlersrangers on May 24th, 2020 at 6:50pm
The Criterion barrels look like a beautiful thing.

I do not fully understand how 'un-finished' their chamber is or the correct process of fitting a Criterion barrel to a Krag bolt and action.

Personally, I would have a Criterion barrel installed by a qualified professional.

(I have put a 'loose' original Krag barrel on a stripped 1898 action, but, I kind of understand that process, had adequate tools, and little money was involved).

Also, I would be loathe to file a 'step' at the muzzle of a Criterion carbine barrel. It is 'doable', but, irreversible.

IMHO - 's99vg' has gathered some nice components that could blend together to make a nice replica model 1896 carbine, (like the ones that were rebuilt using a model 1899 influenced stock, in the early 1900's).

It is my hunch that this is what 's99vg' really wants!
If that is the case, it would be better, with a Criterion Barrel, to have the installer silver-solder an S&S or original front-sight base during the job.

I like the look of the, so called, "DCM/NRA carbine" and have put together a couple of 'facsimiles'.

A 1903 'banded' front-sight can be installed without permanently 'stepping' a barrel.

The 1903 base can be 'honed' to increase the inside diameter until it will slip onto a short Krag or Criterion barrel.
I have used a 'slotted' shaft holding folded emery cloth to progressively enlarge the I.D. until it was a tight barrel fit. (1/2 round files help speed the process).

If there is a flat, dove-tail, or slight dimple on a barrel, the spline-slot on the 1903 base can be packed with some 'J.B. Weld' glue, prior to driving onto barrel and orienting with rear-sight.
Once hardened, the base will be securely retained, but, can be later removed with a brass mallet and heat. (The sight-band hides its 'engagement' with the barrel).

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