In recent years, precision shooting enthusiasts have increasingly sought out specialized equipment and ammunition to enhance their accuracy and reliability in the field. One of the common questions emerging from the precision rifle community is whether a 0.68 firing pin is OK with 6GT cartridges. This topic explores the interaction between these components, delving into the technicalities that impact the performance and safety of this setup. If you’re a competitive shooter, hunter, or long-range precision enthusiast, understanding the nuances behind a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT configuration is essential.
What is a 0.68 Firing Pin?
A 0.68 firing pin refers to the diameter of the firing pin tip in inches. The firing pin is a crucial component of the firearm’s bolt assembly, responsible for striking the primer of the cartridge and igniting the propellant. The diameter of the firing pin influences the force distribution on the primer, which can affect the ignition reliability and safety of the cartridge. A 0.68 firing pin is typically considered larger than most standard firing pins, which usually range from 0.062 to 0.064 inches.
For competitive shooters, consistency and reliability in primer strikes are critical, and using a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT cartridges requires understanding the cartridge’s primer pocket and the firing pin’s potential impact.
The 6GT Cartridge – A Brief Overview
The 6GT cartridge, developed in collaboration between top competitive shooters and George Gardner of GA Precision, has gained a strong following due to its balance of precision, low recoil, and excellent ballistic performance. It’s designed primarily for long-range shooting competitions like PRS (Precision Rifle Series), where accuracy over extended distances is paramount.
One of the key aspects of the 6GT cartridge is its efficient case design, which allows for consistent powder burn and exceptional accuracy. The 6GT typically uses small rifle primers, which are known for providing consistent ignition and allowing for higher pressures without risking primer flow or cratering. However, the question arises: Is a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT in terms of performance and safety?
Firing Pin Diameter and Primer Interaction
When evaluating whether a 0.68 firing pin is OK with 6GT cartridges, it is essential to understand the firing pin’s interaction with the primer. Primers are sensitive components that ignite the powder charge in the cartridge, and the size of the firing pin affects how the primer is struck. A firing pin that is too large for the primer’s pocket can result in excess pressure, which could lead to undesirable outcomes like primer cratering, pierced primers, or inconsistent ignition.
A 0.68 firing pin is larger than what is typically recommended for cartridges with small rifle primers, such as the 6GT. Most primers used with 6GT cartridges are designed for smaller firing pin tips, typically around 0.062 inches. When a 0.68 firing pin is used with 6GT cartridges, it may increase the likelihood of primer deformation or cratering, which can affect accuracy and, in some cases, pose safety risks.
Why Shooters Might Consider a 0.68 Firing Pin
Despite the potential risks, there are situations where a 0.68 firing pin is OK with 6GT, particularly if the rifle has been specifically tuned or modified for this configuration. Some shooters may find that larger firing pins offer benefits in terms of ignition reliability, especially in cold weather or with harder primers. Additionally, certain firearms may come equipped with firing pins in this size range, and shooters may opt to stick with the existing setup rather than switching to a smaller pin.
However, using a 0.68 firing pin with 6GT cartridges should be approached with caution, and it is generally recommended to consult a gunsmith or firearm expert before making any changes to your firing pin or bolt assembly.
Potential Issues with 0.68 Firing Pin in 6GT
Here are a few potential problems that can arise when using a 0.68 firing pin with 6GT cartridges:
- Primer Cratering: When the firing pin strikes the primer, excess pressure can cause the primer to flow back into the firing pin hole, resulting in cratering. This can compromise the seal and affect accuracy.
- Pierced Primers: A larger firing pin can penetrate the primer, creating holes and allowing gas to escape. This is a dangerous situation that can lead to gas blowback into the bolt and possibly damage the firearm.
- Inconsistent Ignition: With an oversized firing pin like the 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT, the force applied to the primer may not be evenly distributed, leading to inconsistent ignition and affecting the performance of the round.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Using a firing pin that is too large for the primer can cause premature wear on the bolt and firing pin assembly, as well as on the primers themselves, leading to malfunctions over time.
Optimizing for Safety and Performance
To ensure that a 0.68 firing pin is OK with 6GT, it is important to carefully monitor the primers for signs of cratering or piercing after firing. In many cases, switching to a firing pin with a smaller diameter may be necessary to maintain the integrity of the primer and ensure safe, consistent ignition.
Firearm owners who insist on using a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT should also experiment with different primers to find one that is less prone to deformation. Some primers are harder and can withstand more pressure, making them a better match for a larger firing pin.
Additionally, adjusting the headspace and bolt face depth can sometimes mitigate issues with a 0.68 firing pin. Consulting with a gunsmith who specializes in precision rifles and 6GT cartridges will provide the best guidance on how to modify or optimize your firearm for safe operation with a 0.68 firing pin.
Conclusion
In summary, while a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT cartridges is technically feasible, it is not always ideal due to the potential for primer cratering, piercing, and inconsistent ignition. The 6GT cartridge is designed with small rifle primers in mind, which typically perform best with smaller diameter firing pins. Using a 0.68 firing pin requires careful attention to primer behavior and may necessitate adjustments to the firearm to avoid damage or unsafe conditions.
For shooters who prioritize reliability and accuracy, sticking with the standard firing pin size recommended for 6GT cartridges is generally the best course of action. However, with the right modifications and care, it is possible to make a 0.68 firing pin OK with 6GT, especially for specific shooting scenarios or customized setups.
Shooters considering this setup should consult with firearm experts to ensure their configuration is both safe and effective for their shooting needs.