While many barrel break-in (or polish) procedures will differ in specifics, most involve a process that begins by firing a series of shots from a new rifle or barrel, each followed by a thorough and proper cleaning regime. Many rifle owners fail to understand the importance of these procedures, and often neglect this process all-together. But why is it necessary? Off the shelf guns, in other words those that are not custom built from the start, often carry what ever barrel the manufacturer decides is most cost-effective. During the manufacturing process steel is unevenly stressed and microscopic burs and rough-spots (tool marks) are created. These tiny irregularities can be smoothed out and eliminated by a break-in process, which allows copper fouling to deposit in a far more consistent manner therefore promoting accuracy. No amount of proper break-in can fix a poorly made barrel, but a lack of a good break-in procedure will most likely limit a good barrel's life and diminish its accuracy potential right from the start. Research different break-in procedures to determine which best suits your new rifle, or purchase TacDivisions Marksmanship Guide with their own recommended procedures, barrel logs, and more by following the link below.
