How to Use a Trunnion Bushing Tool

Where firearms are concerned, a trunnion is a small protrusion used as a pivoting or a mounting point. Some weapons utilize a trunnion, which also acts as an interior barrel bushing connecting the barrel to the receiver. This is common for press-frame mounted firearms, such as an Uzi or AK-style assault rifles. A barrel bushing or trunnion tool is a common tool used by gunsmiths who perform various work on rifles with trunnion bushings. This tool can be used with little difficulty.

Things You'll Need

  • Padded gun vise
  • Firearm manual
  • Trunnion bushing tool
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unload the weapon completely. Visually inspect the weapon to ensure that no live ammunition is present.

    • 2

      Disassemble the weapon. As all disassembly instructions will vary between firearms, consult your firearm owner's manual for specifics

    • 3

      Secure the receiver/barrel assembly in a padded gun vise. Ensure that the trunnion is visible and accessible to work.

    • 4

      Attach the trunnion tool to the trunnion. Depending on the model, this will vary slightly. Insert the trunnion plug -- the narrow-ended protrusion located on the tool -- into the hole at the center of the trunnion. Extend and push the tool's feet at the sides of trunnion, if accessible. If the trunnion is flat mounted to the receiver, the two feet will not need to be used. The trunnion feet only need to be extended when space is present between the trunnion and the receiver side-walls.

    • 5

      Perform your grinding, milling or welding work while the trunnion is being secured by the tool. The tool will then be used to remove the trunnion after cutting, or protecting the sides and center while grinding, welding or milling.