This is probably the better place to ask this, tried it over at big bores under 500a2 topic with no response. After many years of wanting to build a 50 cal, i have started on 500a2. I have had the brass for 25 years, the action for 15 and just got the barrel from PacNor. Question is how much if any can i open the action behind the lower lug abuttment? Seem like there is not quite enough room at the rear. The length of the reciever ring at the top is 1.67 and 1.8 on the bottom. Is the bottom inherently weaker for some reason to need this extra metal. I have built several rifles but not this extreme.Thanks
Dick

are you talking about a 1917 enfield action?

You'll need to trim the boltstop a bit, and you can mill the bottom and top just about as much as you like.. send jijm wiesner an email.. and ask very nice for his 505 gibbs/416 rigby on an enfield article.. .it's very well laid out, and you'll get it very quickly

jeffe

vapodog
Yes it is an Enfield. Winchester, i guess by the serial # Wxxxxxx. Was 303 cross drilled and welded in the chamber. $25 when i bought it.
Jeffe
Thanks. I will do that. Am anxious to hear it roar. As soon as the barrel is attached to the action will probably pull the trigger on a round just to hear it. Thanks again.
Jeffe
I have seen Jim Wiesner name before but what is his email address?
Dick
Dick

if you are going to run this thing at ANY speed you must have a pin down the wrist, at leaest front crosbolts and a barrel recoil lug... fully bedded... and the rear tang (including behind the safety) SHOULD NOT TOUCH WOOD on a vertical edge

jeffe

Jeffe
It sounds like you might know how to build a usable stock. I have done a few myself. I also took the time to read every thing i could find on this forum about the abuse a true big bore gives to the stock. 500a2 fundamentals. All these things have been given due consideration. What i need to find out is what if any metal can be removed behind the lower abbutment to get the 500a2 to fit. Where do i email Jim Wiesner? All tips are greatly appreciated. Thanks
Dick
Just noticed a pm for me. I am still figuring out how to use this forum. Thanks again.

I would like to express my appreciation to Jim Wisner for the information in this regard. THANKS Jim.
I recieved it at just the right time. The barrel and reciever are let. The trigger guard and floor plate have been extended. The octagonal barrel with integral front ramp is finished except for final finish and blue.
Now i can cut the reciever and drill and tap for scope. The barrel recoil lug will be dovetailed to the barrel.
Another question i have for someone is how thin minimum wood thickness alongside the magazine box? This is 500a2.
I have already fired 2 rounds from the hip. What a BLAST. My grandsons thought it was AWSOME!
Thanks again to Jim and everyone else who are helping with endeavor.
Dick

Anyone have ideas on stock thickness? Will quarter inch be enough?
Dick