thanks for the kind words NC. I wish I could give a nice big juicy update but, well I can’t! I can’t screw the barrel in yet as waiting for paperwork to come through (it can’t be a rifle until that is sorted).

I’ve almost finished cleaning the barrel up, and have started reprofiling the Colombian carbine rear sight base. I just need to close the bore a little - the barrel came in slightly under spec. I cut it length ways and closed it up then welded it with MIG. Big mistake - it bubbled and spat horribly leaving heaps of massive voids. Anyone know what steel these bases are made from? Doesn’t feel like cast... I’ll try oxy welding either with mild filler or GP (like 12p) arc rods with the coating knocked off next but wondering if anyone else has run into this?

Also done a partial stoning of the action and am really pleased how it’s turning out. The pitting is now shallow, minimal and all below the stock line