How to Replace a Rifle Barrel

There are several reasons to replace a rifle barrel. The rifling--grooves or twists--inside the barrel might be worn and not allow the rifle to shoot accurately. Or, you might want to change the caliber of the gun which would require a different barrel. Here's how to replace the barrel in a single-shot rifle with break-open action.

Instructions

1. In a single-shot rifle the break-open action is where the barrel pivots in the receiver. The receiver has a locking mechanism that locks the barrel in place. It normally has a lever or a button to break open the action of the barrel.

2. Remove the forearm, which is a piece of wood or synthetic material mounted to the barrel. It usually has two screws. Remove the screws and remove the forearm of the gun in order to replace a rifle barrel.

3. Locate the pin that connects the barrel to the receiver. This pin holds the barrel in place on the rifle. Take a brass punch and knock out the steel pin. Unlock the barrel from the receiver and remove the barrel in order to replace your rifle barrel.

4. Install your new rifle barrel by aligning the holes of the barrel in the receiver. Reinstall the steel pin. Close the action. Reinstall the forearm to the barrel.

5. Check the alignment of the barrel in the receiver. Open and close the action, making sure the locking mechanism is aligned and locks tightly.

Tips & Warnings

• Break-open action rifles are versatile. You can usually buy different calibers of barrels for this type of rifle.