72 Win 94 30-30 - rebore or rebarrel for 38-55? recmd smith?

[O.S.O.K.]

I've got a 72 Win 94 that I'd like to convert to 38-55. The primary reason is that it's barrel has a bad spot in it that fouls very quickly. Doesn't keep it from shooting adequately but I don't have a 38-55 and would like one. I know that a simple rebore/rechamber will do the trick with no other mods needed.

I've been reading around and considering different options. Looked at the numrich $120 26" octagon option... which requires a lot more work and expense than I really want - really just want a shooter - I don't mind the honest worn look it has.

What do you guys think?

Any recommendations for a place to have it rebored?

ETA: Here's some pics I just took of it so you can see what I'm talkin about:

[O.S.O.K.]

BTT - nobody?

[JerryB]

Check with 20 cows,I think he posted a smith that he used awhile back.

[O.S.O.K.]

I think I read that thread.... did a search and looked but I don't recall - but thanks, I'll go look again.

Any more recommendations appreciated!

[Hobie]

That's Jesse Ocumpaugh (sp?) who lists on GunsAmerica. Many rave about his work AND prices.

[O.S.O.K.]

Thanks Hobie

ETA: http://www.bellmtcs.com/store/index.php?cid=217

[awp101]

That's Jesse Ocumpaugh (sp?) who lists on GunsAmerica. Many rave about his work AND prices.

That's who I plan to contact if/when I go from .30-30 to .38-55...

[Griff]

Since I'm simply addicted to the good ol' .30-30... why not just rebarrel? Then you'd have a good ol' thurdy-thurdy and an excuse to buy a nice .38-55!

[Mike D.]

My half octagon front end assembly arrived yesterday from Numrich. Everything is there, except the mag plug. The "kit" comes disassembled with all parts bagged and ready to go, including sights. The only marking on the barrel is the caliber, .30 W.C.F.

My plan is to send it along to Jesse for a bore to .38-55 and then to Mike Hunter for correct 1894 barrel markings. It will probably be mated to a late '40s, or possibly a mid '30s, '94 Winchester.

[O.S.O.K.]

Griff, I've got three other 30-30's, but no 38-55...

Mike D - make sure and post pics of that when its complete! I was looking at that - looks to be a very good deal.

[Mike D.]

O.S.O.K., here is what you get for your $199. Not a bad deal at all, especially considering that you have a nearly complete half of a rifle. I am also considering a Model 64 lever and buttstock for this project. Might as well go all the way.

[O.S.O.K.]

Wow - I agree, a very good deal. I wouldn't mind going that route but I'd want to cch the scintered receiver and replace the buttstock with a rifle crescent version - more $$$. But it would look sweet - just like your's will.

[awp101]

My half octagon front end assembly arrived yesterday from Numrich. Everything is there, except the mag plug. The "kit" comes disassembled with all parts bagged and ready to go, including sights. The only marking on the barrel is the caliber, .30 W.C.F.

I just placed my order for one tonight. Don't know if I'll go to .38-55 as was my original plan or leave it in .30WCF...

[20cows]

Sorry, I've been out of pocket for a day or two.

Yes, I highly recomend Jes Ocumpaugh's work! I'm also a fan of the crescent stock, even on carbines and trappers.



Both are converted .38-55's.

BTW, I just sent Jes the barrel. That simplified the shipping for me and the work for him.

[O.S.O.K.]

nice - I like the crescents too. Thanks for the info!