Well it's back to the drawing board. Thanks for the advice guys.

Randy

304 SS is a big no no. Work hardens and is prone to stress corrosion cracking.

Welding is also a no no on barrels of any type.

Chrome moly tube comes in different grades like 4130 and 4140. The 4140 is much stronger. If you get it leaded then it is supposed to be easier to machine. 1" chromemoly tube is not cheap. I would think with the recoil that will be generated that you will need a couple of barrel mounted recoil lugs for the stock to survive.