Bore Lapping/Polishing for Firearms: Cheap Portable Solutions

  • Thread starter Thread starter will0057
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on affordable and portable solutions for bore lapping and polishing in firearms, specifically shotguns. Users suggest utilizing valve-guide hones, which are typically used in automotive applications, as a potential tool for this task, although they can be costly, often exceeding $350. Alternative methods include wrapping sandpaper or drywall screen around a sponge on a stick, or using a sponge mop combined with valve grinding paste to achieve an even finish. The need for a tool that applies equal pressure across the bore surfaces is emphasized, highlighting the challenges of achieving a uniform polish.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of bore dimensions and tolerances in firearms
  • Familiarity with valve-guide hones and their applications
  • Knowledge of polishing techniques and materials, such as valve grinding paste
  • Basic skills in using power tools, particularly drills
NEXT STEPS
  • Research valve-guide hones and their specifications for bore sizes
  • Explore DIY methods for bore polishing using sandpaper and sponges
  • Investigate the properties and applications of valve grinding paste
  • Learn about the effects of bore tapering on polishing techniques
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for firearms enthusiasts, gunsmiths, and hobbyists looking to improve the condition of shotgun bores without incurring high costs. It is also useful for anyone interested in DIY firearm maintenance techniques.

will0057
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
Hi - sorry I'm not an engineer just desperate!

I want to remove pitting and marking in a shotgun bore and am having problems finding a tool which will do this in the firearms sector - and if I do I am sure it will be at a premium price - removing a small amount ie less than a thou of the internal diameter of a bore and polishing must be a fairly common requirement in engineering - does anyone know of a cheap portable tool which will do this (as opposed to factory honing) I want something I can put on a drill and spin in the bore - have tried brake honing stones but really need something which will apply equal pressure (or nearly) at all surfaces of the bore, the nearest I can get so far is to try rig up an expanding mandrel - is their anything commercially available?

Thanks
Will
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
I'm not sure whether or not this will work for you, but it might be worth checking out. There are valve-guide hones for auto mechanics. I don't know how large a bore they can service, though. Also, you'd definitely want to rent or borrow one; they cost upward of $350.
My only other suggestion would be to wrap sandpaper or drywall screen around a sponge on a stick.
(That's not my final answer, but I've got nothing else right now.)
 
Your bore is tapered, I imagine. That doesn't help.
How about a sponge mop and valve grinding paste? Lots of rotation and reciprocation to spread the wear and avoid high / low spots.
 

Similar threads

Chemically regenerating my auto's catalytic converter?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
10K