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-   -   Converting Browning .243 WSSM to hornet? (http://www.saubier.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14077)

PharmerJon 05-09-2011 08:12 PM

Converting Browning .243 WSSM to hornet?
 
Hi all,

Hoping to pick some of your brains here...

I have a .243 WSSM A-bolt that I just had to have when they came out, but now it just sits in the safe as my .243 gets all the action. There is a "slim to none" market desire for this caliber in a bolt rifle (around here anyway) so selling is pointless... Just wish I wouldn't have bought in to the hype in 2004!

I have been lurking for awhile and I'm active on other forums (mostly Predatormasters), but figured this is the best place to ask the following:

Does anyone know if it is possible to convert my .243 Winchester Super Short Mag Browning A-bolt to a 22 hornet (likely a K-hornet)?

I've read about the "pain in the rear" A-bolt barrel to receiver threading/lock tight (use heat and the proper tools to remove). The action should be plenty large enough for the short hornet cartridge and I would assume plenty strong enough to handle the pressures produced by the hornet vs WSSM.

Next would be changing the bolt head, ejector, and extractors... Is this possible or would it require a completely new bolt (read $$$) and would not make this a feasible project.

Finally, I see that Pac-Nor or Shilen would make a replacement barrel for the A-bolt, which covers the new barrel aspect of this conversion.

New bolt face/head and a new barrel = good to go? Or what else am I missing?

If you think this would work (and since there is very little for info on it) I would gladly document the process and do a write-up for the internet world!

Thanks in advance for your help.

-Jon

ab_bentley 05-09-2011 08:32 PM

Well, considering the WSSM has a bolt face of .535" and a Hornet has a BF of .350" your're going to need lots of solder and more than likely a new bolt. Then the mag wouldn't feed the hornet case and probably couldn't be made to either. Either way you choose selling the WSSM and buying a new Micro Hornet would a better option all around. IMO, Adam

PharmerJon 05-09-2011 08:40 PM

Forgot about the mag!
Replacement hornet mag fit in the current floorplate? That's another question, I guess.

ab_bentley 05-09-2011 08:42 PM

No, the two actions are two totally differnt animals. Like comparing a 98 Mauser and a CZ527. Your best bet is cutting you losses with the WSSM and using the money to buy a Micro Hunter. ADam

ab_bentley 05-09-2011 08:45 PM

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...ducts_id/32828
It's out of stock but the price is right. ADam

ab_bentley 05-09-2011 08:50 PM

https://www.rrarms.com/catalog.php?prod=G035020206
Here's another.

PharmerJon 05-09-2011 09:02 PM

Thanks for the links Adam.

I might be converting it to a 6.5 WSSM then. Just wanted to feel it out. I am intrigued by the 22 K hornet as I think it would be a great starter rifle for my wife and daughter to get into shooting... before stepping up to the .223 then .243 etc.

Plus I would get to have plenty of fun with it until my 2 year old is... old enough to shoot!

-Jon

RePete 05-09-2011 10:36 PM

If ya just want something for the "Wife and Daughter" to play with (ya right ;) ), Savage still chambers a rifle in 22H. Having it K'd shouldn't be a big deal.
Definatly cheaper and easier than trying to turn a Suburban into a Mini Cooper.
Luck
Charlie

Dean2 05-09-2011 10:47 PM

You could have the barrel removed and rechambered into any number of .243/6mm options and that might not be a bad route, and would likely improve its appeal for re-sale. But, like the other guys said, trying to make a 22 hornet out of it would cost more than giving this one away and buying a new Browning or CZ hornet, not to mention how many excellent used ones are available.

PharmerJon 05-09-2011 11:02 PM

How about this:

Could someone with an A-bolt Micro in 22 hornet measure some things for me?

How long is the action? (WSSM = 2.36")
What are the dimensions of your detachable magazine? (WSSM = 2.52" x 1.15")

Thanks,

Jon


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