This is making some pipes for a a friend.
As usual I did not take all the pictures I should have.
I have tried to get more photos done or work in progress. I use them in computer slide shows at guild meetings and our Gunmakers Fair.
Layout lines and cut. File all edges smooth and straight. Leave the mark on the work to help get the edge filed to the line.
Bend tabs 90 degrees then start forming the tube. This is an upper pipe but process is the same for entry pipe though care must be taken to keep the tail well centered on the entry pipe.
The punch is made from hardened and tempered tool steel. It still acquires some dents but holds its shape well. I use it in cold forming trigger shoes as well.
I have one made of wood as well.
Check alignment and bend as needed
Twist and form tail as needed to get it as it needs to be.
Make sure everything is fairly square.
I made this set for a friend. They are silver soldered. I did not do the final filing etc since he needs to finalize the tail etc to his needs.
The friend is a very accomplished traditional maker who wanted to have some parts from friends and apprentices incorporated into the rifle.
In making the upper pipes its a good idea to make the upper pipes slightly larger, especially to upper one if a tapered rod is used.
This is another entry pipe before and after engraving
Dan