malkiserow Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 There is a big difference in purchase price over so called 'stainless steel' barrels on rifles. Is it really worth the extra? I can see that if you have an over barrel sound mod then you will not get a rub mark with SS Is there a life/wear advantage to SS. Is SS really stainless steel or is it normal steel with some additives? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brad93 Posted February 9, 2014 Report Share Posted February 9, 2014 (edited) Stainless steel is stainless steel. It is steel with a certain content of chromium whether it be 304, 309, 316L or any other derivative containing different elements, molybdenum is common. Stainless steel does not corrode, stain or mark readily. If it contains a certain percentage of chromium, or molybdenum it is often harder than brittle steel. Ideal in marine, wet or salty environments. Won't rust if wet Edited February 9, 2014 by Brad93 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
figgy Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 And the stress cracking in salty environments that happens over time. Hence why bronze is still in such big use. Unless you don't clean your gun or are going to salty conditions its not worth paying for. Figgy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kent Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 The stainless used in rifles can still rust, Stainless comes in various grades some are very resistant other less so. It has two effects on cost 1. its more expensive than Chrome moly 2. its harder to machine and creates more tool wear. The fact that it does not need bluing is neither here nor there as it needs bead blasting or other non reflective finishes (non- hunting rifles are often bright polished) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malkiserow Posted February 10, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 So for for your average hunting/stalking, the Stainless Steel offers little advantage? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kent Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 So for for your average hunting/stalking, the Stainless Steel offers little advantage?It offers some extra protection while out but still needs the same care when you get back. If your out hind stalking in the hills you can sit quietly and hear your gun rusting as the rain proves there is no such thing as waterproof jackets LOL Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
theshootist Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 Stain/rust resistance is a huge advantage. Whether its actually a stainless (i.e. shiney) finish or not, I think there is a lot to be said for having some sort of rust protection. Blaser barrels are extremely stain resistant for example, although they don't have a stainless finish. For the amount of times my rifle gets wet I think its a "good to have". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kent Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 don't forget blood and blued steel don't get on very well, must admit although I have owned stainless guns and found them very practical I like good well blued steel Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Traztaz Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 Best bet if you want a tough no mess finish , no matter whats underneath is Cerakote. That is one hard wearing finish!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
malkiserow Posted February 10, 2014 Author Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 I get the impression there is a trend in bling SS barrels....when often a regular blued finish as often good enough for most shooters. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
theshootist Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 What's happened to border barrels? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kent Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 What's happened to border barrels?I think they just have a lot of military work on at present? Nothing wrong with that, the civilian market in the UK wont hardly pay the bills I recon Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
theshootist Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 Ah, fair enough. As long as they are still in business when I hit that jackpot and can go and have them make me a couple! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
r1steele Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 I think they just have a lot of military work on at present? Nothing wrong with that, the civilian market in the UK wont hardly pay the bills I recon I think they have sold up and are now owned by a midlands firm. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kent Posted February 10, 2014 Report Share Posted February 10, 2014 Makes good business to be nearer proof house and other connected industry, transport from Scotland must have pushed the viability. Good luck to them lets not run them down its a British company making its way in a difficult climate at the end of the day. Must be a darn sight easier to get good staff and contractors in the Midlands Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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