Proofing bench

[Blacksmoke]

This topic is in response to "Chunker119" who asked if I would show a photo of my home made proofing bench.  This contraption eliminates the human factor when testing a barrel for it's accuracy. It allows one to repeat fire a muzzle loading barrel whilst held  in the same position consecutively. I built it out of wood( 2X6's) to simulate a wooden gun stock.  It is mounted on a modified welding table which, is in turn, held steady with 2000lbs. of cinder blocks.  The scope mounted on it is only used to see the developing groups as a load is being worked up for each individual  barrel that I rifle. once I begin shooting I  do not adjust the scope or the cradle which holds the barrel.  The barrel is fitted with a special breech that I made to fire the charge by means of a flash pan and a piece of fuse.  Please feel free to ask any questions,      Hugh Toenjes

[OldMtnMan]

Very interesting. About as good as it gets for barrel testing.

[Daryl]

Do you set it up at 100yards aside from the 25 or 30 it is currently point at.  Different range location or perhaps angles, presumably.

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Once you have the barrel fixed,. Hugh, do you load subsequent shots like loading a cannon...inserting a charge and patched ball without moving the barrel?  I have often wondered about your machine rest system!

[n stephenson]

Hugh, I built jigs and fixtures for about 10 years in an air conditioner plant . I still love to look at them , I guess that is a little weird !! I just find it interesting to see other people`s ideas and approaches at fixture building . I like your set up . NICE JOB!! Nate