BAR re-chambered for 338-08 or 338-06?

CAM2 · 01-08-2003, 09:09 AM

Has anyone ever heard of a browning BAR being re-barreled? I'm wondering if it can be done at a reasonable price because I would like to get a used one and have it re-chambered for the 338-08 or the 338-06. I know that some people may say why, but I say why not. I like semi-auto firearms and I really like the 308 BAR that I have now but I would like to have something different. Now that I hand load I've got a hankering for trying something different, something out of the ordinary. I can get a barrel for my Encore chambered in one of these cartridges which I will one day if I can't get a BAR re-chambered for what I want, most likely the 338-06.

If you're not huntin' you're not livin'!!!!!!!!

jed · 01-08-2003, 01:29 PM

I believe that the 338-08 would require a new bolt face. I am not really familiar with either round, but if the 338-06 is a 30-06, necked up for the 338 bullet then I do not see why a BAR in 30-06 could not be just rebarrelled. The bolt face is already designed for the 30-06 case, so no modifications would be required within the receiver. My guess is you could do this for under $300 depending on the quality of the barrel you purchased. Hopefully there is a smith on the board that can give you a better answer.

CAM2 · 01-08-2003, 02:42 PM

it should only require a new barrel because one cartridge is a necked up .308win and the other is a necked up 30-06. i'm concerned that it might cost a great deal more than getting a bolt rifle re-barreled because of the gas system of the BAR.

If you're not huntin' you're not livin'!!!!!!!!

CAM2 · 01-11-2003, 07:25 AM

where are the gunsmiths?

If you're not huntin' you're not livin'!!!!!!!!

eldeguello · 01-11-2003, 08:27 AM

You could retain the original barrel, and merely have it rebored and rerifled to shoot .338 bullets. I once saw a .338 Win. caliber BAR that had been converted to .458 Winchester Magnum! What a dangerous game rifle that must have been!!

Keep yore powder dry!!

Quilly · 01-11-2003, 11:36 AM

i tried to get my browning medallion re-chambered to a 35whelen and was told by a gunsmith that you need a special tool to take the barrel off. the tool only id found at browning factories. this is what i was told maybe he was wrong?