Hi folks, I need some information on custom chamber reamers. I finally found a company that chambers the 8x68s, but looking at this cartridge with it's 17 degree shoulder, I start thinking 8x68s improved, instant 8mm Mag with no belt.What is the cost of a top notch reamer and who makes the good ones.This is probably not a cartridge a custom gunsmith would split costs with me on. any input would be much appeciated.

Frank
Talk to Dave Kiff at Pacific Tool and Gauge. He is an expert at making custom reamers and will turn out a floating pilot reamer to your spec's for about $150. We have used many of Daves reamers and they are a joy to work with. You have not seen tools cut until you try one of his. Dave Kiff may be reached at 541-826-5808

I second Dave Kiff at Pacific Tool. With over 100 reamers in the collection, I have used about every make. PTG are the best! For those that do not know, there is a touch of Keith Francis in every reamer Dave grinds, as Dave was trained by Keith. Keith was the grand old master of reamer grinding.

Spec out your reamer drawing carefully, as Dave grinds to your specs and drawing EXACTLY. If you make a mistake, (as I have) then it's your baby.

For a hunting cartridge, do not get too carried away with snug or tight necks and tight chambers. Will just get you into trouble.

Best way is to call Dave, have him FAX you a drawing, then make any changes you need. Chances are Dave already has something similar to your 8x68.

I would think seriously about a 30 degree shoulder instead of 40, helps feeding. And give Ultra brass a glance, a fine cartridge would be 300 Ultra necked up to 8mm with no other changes.

I will add my satisfaction to Kiff too. I have only had two reamers made, but each time Dave discussed with me everything he thought should be there.
Tell him what you want and what you want to do with it, but you aren't sure enough to commit to every dimension. He'll then take you by the hand and guide you right through the cartridge. Ask questions. He isn't afraid to answer them. Very nice guy.

Another big Dave Kiff fan here. The reamers are fantasitc, and so is the staff. His number is 541-826-5808. I could talk him up, but I gotta go. They are what you want.

Thanks for the info.The 300 RUM necked up is a good idea.My plan was to first chamber for the 8x68s work up some loads and see how I like the cartridge then start tweaking it. Pac-Nor chambers it so they would be the natural choice for a barrel. Just a fast look at the specs on the 300 RUM tells me it's plenty long and fat enough to clean up the chamber and convert to 8x300 at full length or slightly shortened. Guy at work has a win. 70 for sale chambered for the 300RUM, don't think it had many rounds through it. Sometimes things just fall into place.

what would happen if you used a 7ultra reamer with the correct sized pilot and then neck/throated with the 8x68 reamer? fireform 7ultra brass or have a 7ultra die neck reamed again with your 8x68 reamer?
just thinking outload and on the cheap...
woofer

Dadgum you guys! I have a reamer Dave made for me in 375 H&H flanged mag that my Ruger No 1 will be chambered with--don't have the coin to do the project right now and y'all aren't helping one bit! So cut it out! No, wait--that's what the reamer is supposed to do...maybe I should put an ad in the Classifieds for donations so I don't have to just sit and look at the reamer and that new barrel and action...maybe I'll go ring a bell outside Walmart and pick up enough change to get started!

Good Hunting, goshdern ya!

Woofer, that certainly sounds like a feasable way to go, I will check it out. I wonder if necking down the 338 Rum would be better than necking up the 7mm or 300 due to better neck wall thickness uniformity. All I know about that is what I've read. I currently have and load for two improved cartridges. 223AI and 280 AI, this is my first foray into a full wildcat. Thanks for the advice

i just threw out the 7ultra as number. your right i think on the 338 case. it would definately be the closest and a nice one pass afair.....
woofer
also, just priced reamers for a 25wsm. pacific blew the others out of the water for pricing.....
enjoy........................

[ 12-07-2003, 01:00: Message edited by: woofer ]