Action wrenches

[Any22]

Which is the best action wrench . bolt lug raceway type or the one that
goes around the action ? Im grtting conflicting info. I prefer the bolt lug type.

 

[Dennis Sorensen]

The best action wrench will depend on what action you plan on using...

I like an internal spade type wrench for 700 actions and some custom actions, an external clamping wrench on 98's and some other hunting actions.

 

[WSnyder]

Depends on what you are trying to do. If you are removing factory installed barrels then a wraparound wrench like what Brownell's sells might be best. If you are removing or swapping replacement barrels then one of the port type wrenches would probably work fine.

 

[Any22]

I am removing & replacing barrels on mostly 700 remingtons, Mostly replacing factory bbls. I find with just a little heat a factory bbl. isnt that hard to remove . Almost impossible without.The wrap around types are hard on finish & Ive built a lug type It works very well but theres been concern about stressing the actions. Let me say I DONT DO THIS FOR A LIVING. A couple of buddies and I just like to play with our own stuff. we do all our own work . If its good its good BAD WE DO OVER

 

[Dennis Sorensen]

With a little heat I haven't had a problem nor damaged a 700 action with my homemade spade wrench.

 

[lejarretnoir]

I've been using the Brownells wrench. Doesn't scratch or mar the finish at all. I made up my own barrel vise and machine all my barrel inserts out of aluminum. I use a rubber mallet on the wrench and usually after two whacks the factory barrels come right off, no heat needed yet, no twisted actions. I'm gonna make me one of those spade types though.

Had to put a little heat to some Mauser actions. Some of those were real tough.

 

[Any22]

JUST OUT OF CURIOSITY has anyone tried an impact wrench on the removal . I have an electric one & was wondering if I could replace the heat with that? My wrench is a simple piece of 1/2 in plate milled to the right width & thickness . will probably weld a large nut on it . Ive been using a pair of opposing cresents on the end & it works well.