How difficult to fit barrels?

[Dave Miles]

Tom,
It all depends on how close the barrels fit. I have fitted a couple myself, that were real close. And I've had a couple fitted by others, that weren't so close.
As to the forearm, it to can go either way. If your fitting a barrel that has it's own forearm, I would try to use that forearm myself.
I can highly recommend Dewey Vicknair for the work if needed.
http://www.vicknairrestorations.com/index.html

Try Brad Bachelder-- bachelderfirearm@aol.com or 616-459-3636 Tuesday through Fridays 10 Am. to 5 Pm. EST- also a friend had a 12 Ideal Smith rebarreled by Simmons in Olathe, KS- I have never dealt with Mr. Vicknair personally, but he has an outstanding reputation. Mae and I went out to PA this past June, to visit both Gettysburg and Valley Forge (and see one of my sisters in Devon as well) and I had e-mailed Mr. Vicknair before we left, believe he lives near Liditz, and he was very hospitable. Turned out we didn't have time to stop to say "hello" on that trip.

Brad recently rebarreled an older 12 GH Damascus Parker No. 2 frame sn: 115346 with a set of Vulcan 28" barrels sn: 102237 and installed a buttstock from yet another Parker, fine job, the gun shoots perfectly, right to point of aim, and fits me just right. Brad is also a member of the PGCA.