556 can modification project

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uncle money bags

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I have a project in mind and would like to submit the idea for the knowledgeable to weigh in with recommendations.

The need to shorten the OAL of my primary rifle with it's attached suppressor is driving this project, and I am not willing to buy into another system right now. After researching the legalities involved I have determined that I will be on the good side of the ATF with my proposal since the manufacturer and serial number will not be affected or defaced in the process. Also, since it does not "add" to the overall dimensions or material of the can; my understanding is that I should be GTG. If anyone with direct info to the contrary has input, please post it.

Essentially I am starting with a standard YHM Phantom 556 steel can. As you can see from the patent drawing, I want to use a lathe to cut at the red lines, remove the final baffle, then re weld the end cap in place. The drawing shows a thread on 762 YHM can, but the relevant portions of the 556 can is essentially the same except scaled for the smaller round. By my measurements This project will reduce the overall length of the can about 1.5 inches.
In so far as the design of the baffle stack, I am currently unsure if it is welded to the sleeve, or to the inner washers or a combination of the two or neither. It may be necessary to grind/cut out the final baffle. A suitable jig to re weld the end cap will be necessary to ensure alignment. I am not necessarily against re cutting the end cap port to regain a concentric bore path as long as the adjustment is minimal.

I have a fair bit of experience with TIG welding as a hobby, but the last time I touched a lathe would have been in high school.
Any input is appreciated.

 

Mr.Glock

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When you told me about this the other night, I was wondering why? But I see now, so your taking one inch off exactly? Holler if you want to go the one guy I mentioned, but Mechanical Accuracy is who I would talk to first. Good luck with your project!
 

aviator41

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Curious as to what the need to shorten the rifle is all about. Cutting a baffle off like this would seem to comprimise the usefullness of the can. Are you already at the minimum on the barrel?
 

mapcon1941

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What if you look at the muzzle end? Picture taking the endcap and widen the hole for a female acme thread. Shorten your barrel length to 14.5" and pin and weld a 2" muzzle brake that has the male acme thread on it. You would have to make sure the muzzle brake was shorter than the expansion chamber.
 

uncle money bags

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Curious as to what the need to shorten the rifle is all about. Cutting a baffle off like this would seem to comprimise the usefullness of the can. Are you already at the minimum on the barrel?
I am as short on the barrel length as i am willing to go.
So you are taking an average can and making it, likely, much worse at reducing sound by cutting down its overall length? Why?
Reduction of the overall length, reduction of weight at the end of the barrel. doing both of those things cheaper than buying into a new system with a mini can. Originally, the suppressor was used to get maximum suppression with the short barrel. As I have used the system in situations from vehicles to shoot houses to open fields i have come to the conclusion that i would be better served with a can that will eliminate the the concussion from a short barrel for those around me but not necessarily be any quieter than necessary to accomplish that. I am looking for a system that meets that goal and is shorter than the current setup. In other words, i am willing to trade a few db's for a couple of inches because it serves me better.

I know it will compromise some of the sound suppressing quality. You two know me from osa well enough to realize i wouldn't step into this lightly, or without some pretty serious forethought. If this solution does not look like it will meet my goals then i will look at others. If i didnt have a "need" to reduce the length of the system on the barrel side of the equation then i wouldnt be asking for feedback. I appreciate the answers and questions so far.
 
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Hump66

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Since you mentioned shielding the concussion for those around you, have you looked into or considered some of the newer brake shield options? (I'm sure you probably have, but this may help others with a solution not involving NFA items) It would definitely lack any kind of noise suppression, but would meet the concussion courtesy goal. :thumb:

http://www.rainierarms.com/?page=shop/detail&product_id=4189

http://soldiersystems.net/2013/01/02/qd-brake-shield-for-aac-mounts/

Just a couple I could find and actually link to since I'm at work.
 

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