Custom work - Ramrod Freak front retrofitTech index > Custom Work > Ramrod Freak front retrofit
This modification was done for a customer that wanted to use a Ramrod barrel with a modern Freak kit. The process involved chopping off the original barrel threads then cutting new Freak tip threads into the leftover material.
These barrels are made from nickel-plated brass, which is easy to cut. Although the modification can be performed on a manual lathe, I chose to use one of my CNC lathes because I had previously written a generic "Freak front retrofit" program that could be used on any barrel needing modification (or scratch-build barrel front). Therefore it was drastically easier (and quicker) to perform this modification on a CNC, however if you wish to perform a similar modification then check out the dimensions I posted in my CAD file post for barrels.
Ramrod barrels were originally available in a few different threads, but this particular one was Spyder threaded. The new Freak tip threads are 7/8"-32 double lead.
Ramrod barrel before modification
Ramrod barrel trimming
Ramrod barrel after trimming
Barrel alignment before modification
Barrel before modification (Spyder threads)
Turning new external profile
Turning new grooves and relief shape
Turning new 7/8-32-DL threading
Boring new insert holder
Modification done!
Shown above is the process of cutting the new features. The pictures are arranged in as follows:
1. Turn external profile to allow the barrel to fit into a Freak back.
2. Turn grooves for the o-ring, thread relief, and make a flat shoulder for the barrel to mate with Freak back.
3. Turn new Freak threads.
4. Bore a small "lip" to help keep the insert aligned.
5. Done!
Barrel modification done
Barrel modification done
Here's some pictures of the finished barrel after modification. I installed it onto my Autococker for a nice wide shot. Keep in mind this is not my personal barrel.
Ramrod barrel plug replica: The owner of this Ramrod barrel (and others) also wanted a replica of Crossfire's original Ramrod barrel plugs. This part needed to be made from scratch rather than modified from existing parts.
Below is a picture of the OEM barrel plugs:
Ramrod barrel plug OEM
Ramrod barrel plug handle replica
My design was based on the same shape, with a couple modifications to make the component easy to fabricate. The barrel plug is a two-piece component comprised of a handle at the front (shown in the CAD picture) which is press-fitted into a plastic shaft.
Barrel plug replica after turning (white nylon)
Barrel plug replica after turning (black delrin)
Barrel plug replica handles
Making the handle section was fairly straightforward. You can see it in the pictures above or the short video below.
Barrel plug shaft turning
Barrel plug shaft turning
Above are some pictures taken while turning down the long shaft section. I used my manual lathe for this since I needed to "feel" the cutting, which isn't possible with CNC.
