After the lengthy discussion on pillar bedding I've decided to try this on one of my rifles. I've read all of the pros and cons so I don't think we need to go into that again. I'm going to try it. If it helps accuracy, GREAT! If it doesn't, it will be a fun project! Anyway, I do have a couple "how to" questions...

1.) When making aluminum pillars how much clearance/overbore should be left around the action screws? Should they fit as tightly in the pillar as possible? Do they need a few thousandths clearance?

2.) What should the "wall thickness" of the pillar be? For example, if the I.D. were 1/4" what should the O.D. be?

3.) The rifle I'm going to do this with is a Remington 700 ADL. Does the center action screw (screw in the front of the trigger gaurd) need a pillar, or just the front and rear screws?

Thanks in advance, I look forward to giving this a try!
Bob

P.S. JBelk, you (I think it was you!) mentioned in one of the bedding threads that you prefer to use an epoxy/glass bedding compound that has a little "give" to it. Is there one that you like to use that has this characteristic? All of the ones I have read about claim that they are the most rigid thing going. I can't find any that tout their flexibility.

Thanks,
Bob

For your 1/4 inch screws a 17/64 hole is just right. OD of 5/8 inch is good. Regards, Bill.

Bob,

The purpose of the pillars are to keep things from being pulled out of vertical alignment when the guard screws are tightened, therefore, ALL guard screws should have a supporting pillar if you are going to go this route.

Since the purpose of the pillars is to provide a solid, non-deteriorating, unwavering platform for the action, use a material that is least likely to deteriorate over time. If you feel that epoxy will provide that level of service, then use it. personnally I prefer metal.

Malm