[cfroehlich7584]

Just what are the advantages and disadvantages of barrle fluting? I have read that they increase rigidity. But I have also read that it does not do anything for rigidity and can actually hurt accuracy. I have also read that it helps the barrel dissipate heat faster (which has been a problem for me during extended shooting sessions as the heat waves coming off the barrel blurs the view through my scope) and it reduces weight. I am really confused as to whether I should flute my barrel or not. I like the way a fluted barrel looks but that would be a poor reason to flute it. If anyone can give me some definite answers about fluting, aside from weight reduction and heat dissipation, it would be greatly appreciated.

 

[morpheus]

If done correctly fluting does not hurt accuracy but if done poorly it will hurt the accuracy, as you might suspect. I believe it will decrease the rigidit by very little, but as you said it does cool down the barrel by increasing surface area. It's really up to you, if you want your rifle a little lighter and cool down a little faster, yes I would get it. But if you want to get a good gunsmith to do it, and have the money, I would definatly do it.

 

[Jeffvn]

I called and talked to someone at Hart barrels about fluting, rigidity, and accuracy when I was having my 6.5x284 built. This is what I was told.

If you compare two barrels of the same weight, outside diameter and length, and flute one of these two barrels. The fluted barrel will now weigh less and be less rigid than the non-fluted barrel of the same length and outside diameter.

On the other hand if you compare two barrels of the same weight and length, but one is already fluted, the fluted barrel will be more rigid than the one you are comparing it to.

Fluting stresses the metal of the barrel, but if properly relieved, is not a problem for accuracy.

The key is to compare barrels of the same weight and length. The fluted one will be more rigid. For example a 26" #6 taper barrel will be more rigid than a Fluted 26" #6 taper barrel. But will be less rigid than a 26" #7 fluted barrel (assuming they are now virtually the same weight)



There is a pretty good scientif explanation of fluting and rigidity out there but I ahve to go find it. Be back in a second . . and update this with a jumpsite to their webpage.

Couldn't find exactly what I wanted, but this one will do:

http://www.fulton-armory.com/fluting.htm

 

[badpig121]

I've been told that fluting a barrel will affect it's point of impact when the barrel gets hot. It has something to do with the metal not expanding equally due to variations in thickness. If you shoot alot of multiple shots, your cold shot will be off from, say, your 10th or 12th shot. This could pose a problem if you shoot competitions.

 

[morpheus]

If you shoot alot of multiple shots, your cold shot will be off from, say, your 10th or 12th shot. This could pose a problem if you shoot competitions.

Wouldn't this be a problem even with a non-fluted barrel? I don't know for sure but thats why I'm asking. Your cold shot would be different for your 10th plus shot, and even less, because the properties of the barrel change as it gets hot. But I've been wrong many time before.

 

[mele]

Yes, you are correct, BUT its different for every barrel. While in the service I had 2 different issued M24's. The first Shift about 1 MOA after the barrel warmed up... the 2nd did not shift at all. The only way to know is to use your log book and take very good notes.

MEL