Beginner Question Welding tang to breech plug

[Nathan Bowen]

I have a .50 caliber Getz barrel that is breached by Mr. Getz but I need a little more length on the tang for the southern gun I am building. I have a stick and wire welder and I can also braze but am wondering what the best way to add a length of steel is to the tang on the breech plug? Also is any steel ok to use? I want to make sure that the metal takes the finishing process the same.
Thanks,
Nathan

[Birddog6]

V  both pieces on all sides, weld them of & go over size in all areas, let them cool, grind or belt sand them close to finish size & Do NOT get them too hot in the process, file them to finish size.

I have done Dozens of them for me & others & use just regular wire in a wire welder & mild steel for the tang.  Only ever had issues with one & turned out the new wire they welding shop gave me had changed & they didn't know it, was a manuf. change. Went back to the old Harris wire & no problems since & welded ? 8-10 since with no problems.

Have welded lots of cast triggerguards with same wire. ALL of the tangs & guards browned with no issues..
 

[eagle24]

Keith,
When you weld a long southern tang, do you anneal it after you weld it?  Just wondering if it makes the welded area hard and brittle and hard to work (bending).

[Birddog6]

Yes, anything I weld like that I heat red hot & let it cool slowly.  Don't know if it matters or not on them, I just auto do it as have broken places before on bending metal from not doing it.

[rick landes]

If you can, use an argon CO2 mix vs straight CO2 for your gas shield. It gives a smoother weld and less splatter. Mr. BirdDog is spot on with the customizing...as always