Small-Caliber Gun Barrel Processing Cell

Small-Caliber Gun Barrel Processing Cell

A cell is typically composed of three machines. First, Precihole's four-spindle gun drilling machine permits deep drilling of four barrels simultaneously. An open machine configuration facilitates robot access, minimizing operator involvement and supporting 24/7 operation. Depending on individual model configuration, the machine can drill IDs from 0.04" to 1.57" and barrel stock from 0.4" - 4.0" OD.n

April 9, 2021

Absolute Machine Tools' extensive offering of machine tools and automation systems includes machines specifically engineered for drilling, reaming and rifling of small-caliber gun barrels. Sold under the Precihole brand name, the machines can be combined into processing cells that enable a manufacturer to efficiently drill, ream, and rifle as many as 20,000 small-caliber firearm barrels a month.

A cell is typically composed of three machines. First, Precihole's four-spindle gun drilling machine permits deep drilling of four barrels simultaneously. An open machine configuration facilitates robot access, minimizing operator involvement and supporting 24/7 operation. Depending on individual model configuration, the machine can drill IDs from 0.04" to 1.57" and barrel stock from 0.4" - 4.0" OD.

Next in the process is a 2-spindle pull-reaming machine that features automation for insertion and repositioning of reamers. Reduced setup time and rapid operating parameters (0-20 IPM pulling speeds) support high-volume barrel finishing and polishing. Different machine configurations handle reaming diameters from 0.15" to 0.59" and depths from 24" – 60."

Finally, Precihole's button rifling machine forms precise barrel grooves at speeds up to 80 IPM. Depending the machine model, rifling size can range from 0.15" - 0.59", and depth from 24" – 60".

Absolute Machine Tools Director of Marketing and A+ Automation Team Courtney Ortner said, "Absolute focuses on boosting the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing operations. Our company's offering of small-caliber barrel machining and automation equipment can enable firearm manufacturers to optimize their operations and reduce the cost of the guns they produce."

Glossary terms in this article

  • barrel finishing
    Mass finishing process that involves low-pressure abrasion resulting from tumbling workpieces in a barrel (usually of hexagonal or octagonal cross section) together with an abrasiv…