W. M. Large barrel

[A. Cooper]

As part of my Hawken project I have a 36" barrel made in the mid 70's. I'd like to cut off 3" but am concerned I might remove a choke section. I've tried the tight patch technique described elsewhere on this forum but am not able to determine if there is a choke. Does anyone know if Large put a choke in his barrels? Thanks, Arlin

[Bob Roller]

Most of Bill Large's barrels had a bit of taper or choke in them. There are also barrels never made by Bill that have his name stamped on them so be careful.The ones he made with the had concaved lands had a noticeble
choke that could be felt on loading.

Bob Roller

[smylee grouch]

I have had three of Bill Large's barrels and all were choked.

[David R. Pennington]

36 wouldn't bee too long for a Hawken would it?

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Nope.  Perfect.  But heavier than most 21st Century lads like to carry.

[Hawken62_flint]

I did a little research before building my Hawken and 36" was maybe a standard lenght for them, but by no means can you say that there was a specific lenght, or one set stock architecture---if you look at Baird's book, there were many variations and different lenghts of barrel---and they were heavy.  I built mine with a 36" Ed Rayl barrel and it holds great and shoots better than I can hold it. I would not cut off a Bill Large barrel, as Bill knew what he was doing and did it right---his barrels all shoot terrific (at least all the ones that I have seen shot).

[Swampwalker]

Cooper, you should be able to feel the choke if there is one.  If you suspect one, cut the breech end of the barrel instead.  You'll have to re-cut and tap for the breechplug, but I've done many with nothing more than a decent drill press and the right drills or reamers and taps.

[A. Cooper]

Thanks to everyone who responded. The barrel will stay 36" -  accuracy more important than convience. Arlin

[oldarcher]

I have had three of Bills barrels, neither had a noticeable choke. I have a NOS GRRW .58 that is choked and you certainly can feel it. I believe that Bill made whatever he was in the mood or thought that he could sell, I have seen a variety of different widths of lands/grooves made by Bill. I think that Bob Roller is the most knowledgeable person about Bills barrels. He should know what Bill built.