Didn't somebody post a really easy to follow set of instructions on how to shorten a screw just recently?? I know I should try to locate that post, but neither "shorten" nor "screw" seem very distinct search criteria...

I bought a youth stock for a Contender Carbine just recently. The son of my brother and sister in-law likes to shoot, and the idea was to get a rifle with a suitable LOP for him. However, the two screws for the foreend are just a tad long, and the foreend moves about, even when the screws are fully tightened. I either need to shorten the screws, or use a shim...

Suggestions and instructions more than welcome. Thanks ever so much in advance.

Oh, btw, he'll be starting out with a .22 Hornet barrel, so maybe I'll be back shortly in frustration about loading the Hornet. That seems to happen fairly regularly... Anybody know the twist rate for a Contender Hornet, and whether it is .224 or .223 cal?? I was hoping to start out with a .224 cal 40 grs Sierra HP, and most people seem to recommend small pistol primers with Lil'Gun...

- mike

Fastest way to fix the screw issue is some small washers, most hardware stores have assortments where you can get them individually. If you are certain the screws just need shortening I would suggest holding them in some needlenose or thin jawed pliers and filing them with a fine file. I do not like to grind screws usually. Let me take that back, if I can run a nut up the threads then I might grind it if I have a few to do. But normally the grinding will heat the threads and cause burrs. If you do not have a tap or a nut use a file. When you are finished you can clean the thread up by holding the screw against a knife edge and turning it off with a screwdriver. For small screws I use a utility knife blade but wear a glove and be careful or I guarantee you will cut your thumb.

I just ordered a contender barrel in 22 hornet last week, hasn't arrived yet, but it is a 1-12" twist. I'm pretty sure it is a 223 barrel too. 40 gr is a good weight. Anything over 45 tumbles in my brothers #1, I think that is a 1-14" twist though.

Thanks Mark, much appreciated.

- mike