Hi Ken, I got a call on a 22 revolver with a slightly bulged BBL, J C Higgins Mod 88. I believe this to be a Hi Standard.
The bulge is described as slight & was not even noticed until it was cleaned & he could feel the cleaning rod “slip”. On further inspection he found the bulge.
I am told that it still shoots to point of aim. It is unclear as to when this bulge happened. It was used in the last few days for rabbit hunting. I admit I haven’t seen it & am going on a verbal description only. This is from a relative that is knowledgeable about guns & takes good care of them.
The question is must this be re-barreled or is likely safe enough to shoot? On one hand this 22 seems to be shooting OK.
In the other hand re-barreling seems the safest option. I don’t have a lath yet so is this a job you guys would take?
If not who do you suggest?
OK, bulges are like cracks in glass, it works now but will continue to grow until it splits or bursts, .22 is low pressure so it will probably take some time. The safe thing is to re-barrel it. We do re-barrel those but be aware we will want you to find a barrel and send that with the gun so we are sure you have the correct one you want. Also be aware that those aren’t worth a whole lot. Get the gun and inspect it first before you or your family member make any decision etc.
Reply:
I thought this might be the case but thought it best to ask you. I’ll talk to him & go from there
Answer:
Could we cut the BBL down past the bulge? The bbl will only be about 2 3/4 inches long but usable.
Or since you described the bulge as a crack in glass is it still a accident waiting to happen? This is my guess but it seems a logical question.
Reply:
Yeah cutting the barrel off is a good way to save the original barrel and be safe. When I mentioned it was like a cracked glass I meant that it will only continue to grow, until it breaks or bursts. So yeah, cut it and reinstall the sight and away you go.
