Hello, I need some help. I have an older Jukar kentucky rifle. it has the 2 round wedge pins to hold the barrel on ( they kinda look like the old shear pins on a boat motor ) what I would like to do is put small brass bolts through the wedge holes. with a brass trim washer in each side. and a brass nut ( that looks like the brass bolt head ) please point me in the right direction. thanks Steve

If you are going to shoot this muzzleloader, I wouldn't suggest using a small brass bolt? They are soft and could shear off when shooting your rifle! If it is for a wall hanger go to your local hardware store and they can help you out.

RugerMike, How about if a guy used a small steel screw and brass washers on each side with a brass nut. the reason for wanting to change the way it is now, is the pins are getting sloppy and want to fall out. Thanks Steve

Put your barrel on a soft cloth. With a punch put a slight inward dent in the slot of the barrel that the wedge pin slides through. That will put the tension you want to hold it in place. Or you can put a slight bend on the wedge pin themselves...

It would better to find you a larger wedge pin which also your hardware storeshould have as well. How small are these original pins? The steel screws will work but they will corrode and rust on you unless you use black treated gun screws.

[quoteIt would better to find you a larger wedge pin which also your hardware storeshould have as well.][/quote]

That's what I'd do. You've got existing holes to use as pilots, so location is no problem. I'd also suggest installing escutcheons for thepin holes to keep them from wallowing out again.

If they are round piins about 1/16 in diameter, just use the proper size nails...When I make a flintlock, I just use a finishing nail and cut to length...As Cay mentioned, you can bend them, but if done properly they should be tight enough that you need to hammer in...After inserting, you can work a little bees wax into the hole to help waterproof and seal....