How to Use Oak Blocks for an Action Wrench

For gunsmiths, hunters and shooting enthusiasts having a barrel vise handy is ideal when a barrel needs changing or modification. A barrel is generally held onto the barrel lug via metal bonding solution and is screwed down tight. An action wrench fits over the barrel lug and allows you to apply significant torque to break the barrel free. Oak blocks are often used in a barrel vise to keep the barrel from twisting while you apply pressure to the action wrench.

Things You'll Need

  • Oak block (2 inches thick, 4 inches square)
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Vertical jaw vise (or standard barrel vise)
  • Sawdust
  • Action wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

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

    • 2

      Measure the circumference of the barrel. Reduce the measurement by 1/16 inch. Scribe the reduced circumference onto an oak block at the center.

    • 3

      Draw a line across the oak block, bisecting the scribed circle at the center. Drill out the scribed circle using a matching drill bit or a router. Cut the oak block in half along the line you just drew using a saw.

    • 4

      Set the oak blocks into a vertical positioned barrel vise. Place one block on the bottom portion of the vise jaw.

    • 5

      Sprinkle a bit of sawdust onto the semi-circle groove on the oak block. Push the barrel into the semi-circle groove. Set the other oak block half on top of the barrel and push down. Lower the top vise jaw -- tightening the vise -- until the barrel is snug between both blocks.

    • 6

      Attach the action wrench to the barrel lug. Twist the action wrench to remove the barrel from the receiver. The blocks and sawdust will create tension around the barrel and keep it in place so you can unscrew the barrel from the receiver.