First Thoughts on the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit promises to be a simple solution to a complex problem: improving rifle accuracy. Brownells aims to provide both professional gunsmiths and hobbyists with a user-friendly compound, Acraglas, designed to enhance the fit between the rifle’s action and stock. The promise of a 7-10 year shelf life also caught my attention.
I’ve always sought the “one-ragged-hole” accuracy in my rifles. In my experience, even high-end rifles can benefit from proper bedding. I’ve tried various techniques, from simple shim jobs to full-blown epoxy bedding with mixed results. This Brownells Gun Bedding Kit intrigued me because of Acraglas’s long-standing reputation and accessibility.
Unboxing the kit, I was struck by its simplicity. It’s a no-frills package. The components felt solid enough, though I wasn’t immediately blown away by premium materials; this reflected the kit’s budget-friendly price.
Compared to a full-fledged pillar bedding kit or a more complex epoxy system, the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit appeared less daunting. Devcon Steel Putty, for example, offers incredible strength but requires precise mixing and can be unforgiving. I chose the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit hoping for a balance between effectiveness and ease of use, prioritizing a straightforward application process.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While not flashy, the kit seemed practical and well-suited for its intended purpose. The hope was that it would deliver on its promise of improved accuracy without a steep learning curve or specialized equipment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Brownells Gun Bedding Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit on a well-used, but accurate, Remington 700 in .308 Winchester. I bedded the action into a synthetic stock. The process took place in my well-ventilated workshop.
The initial application was relatively straightforward, following the instructions provided. The Acraglas mixed smoothly. There was sufficient working time before it began to set up. The release agent seemed effective. The action separated from the stock without drama.
Initially, I noticed an immediate improvement in how the action sat in the stock. All movement and play was gone.
Extended Use & Reliability
After bedding the rifle with the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit, I put it through several range sessions spanning multiple months. The bedding held up remarkably well. There was no cracking, chipping, or shifting of the Acraglas compound.
The rifle has been subjected to varying temperature and humidity conditions. From hot summer days at the range to damp autumn mornings in the field. The bedding remained stable and didn’t seem affected by these environmental changes. Cleaning was simple. A quick wipe-down with a cloth kept everything tidy.
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit outperformed my expectations. It delivered a noticeable improvement in accuracy and consistency compared to how the rifle performed before bedding. The Acraglas created a solid, stable platform for the action, and it has proven to be durable and reliable over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Brownells Gun Bedding Kit
Specifications
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit contains Acraglas, a two-part epoxy compound, and a release agent. Its primary function is to create a precise and stable interface between a rifle’s action and its stock. The shelf life is advertised at 7-10 years.
The included Acraglas is a key component. It’s designed to be strong and dimensionally stable after curing. The release agent prevents the Acraglas from bonding to the metal of the action, allowing for easy removal after bedding.
The extended shelf life is significant, allowing users to store the kit for future projects without worrying about degradation. Precise bedding is critical for accuracy. It ensures consistent action placement and recoil transfer.
Performance & Functionality
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit performs its job admirably. It provides a solid, stress-free bedding surface for rifle actions. Accuracy typically improves because the action is consistently positioned within the stock.
A strength is its ease of use. It is relatively simple to mix and apply compared to more complex bedding systems. A potential weakness is that, being a basic kit, it might not offer the same level of fine-tuning as more advanced options with pillars or shims.
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit largely exceeded my expectations. The improvement in accuracy, combined with the straightforward application, made it a worthwhile investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit is designed for functionality, not aesthetics. The materials are basic, but the Acraglas compound is formulated for strength and stability. The kit is lightweight and comes in a simple container.
The kit’s user-friendliness is a major advantage. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Even beginners can achieve good results with patience and attention to detail.
Durability & Maintenance
The Acraglas bedding compound is designed to last. It provides a durable bedding surface that withstands recoil and environmental stress. Proper application and preparation are crucial for ensuring longevity.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning of the rifle will also keep the bedding area free from debris and prevent any potential issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit is a self-contained system. It is designed to work as a standalone solution. However, it can be combined with other aftermarket accessories to enhance bedding performance.
Pillars can be installed in conjunction with the Acraglas to provide additional support and rigidity. Aftermarket recoil lugs can also be bedded in place for improved accuracy and recoil transfer. While the kit itself doesn’t offer many direct customization options, it provides a solid foundation for further enhancements.
Pros and Cons of Brownells Gun Bedding Kit
Pros
- Straightforward and easy to use. This makes it accessible for beginners.
- Provides a noticeable improvement in rifle accuracy and consistency. This is a huge win.
- Acraglas is durable and dimensionally stable. It withstands recoil and environmental changes.
- Long shelf life of 7-10 years. This provides good value.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other bedding options. This makes it budget-friendly.
Cons
- Basic kit lacks advanced features such as pillars. This limits fine-tuning.
- Surface preparation is crucial for optimal results. Skimping will lead to problems.
Who Should Buy Brownells Gun Bedding Kit?
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit is perfect for:
- Hobbyist gunsmiths looking to improve the accuracy of their rifles. It provides an easy and affordable entry point.
- Hunters and recreational shooters seeking to enhance the performance of their rifles. It will provide a more consistent and accurate platform.
- Anyone wanting a simple and reliable bedding solution without a steep learning curve. Ease of use is key.
Who should skip this product?
- Professional gunsmiths who require advanced bedding systems with pillars and shims. They need greater fine-tuning capabilities.
- Those unwilling to dedicate time and effort to proper surface preparation. The results will be less than satisfactory.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A quality release agent is essential. It will ensure easy action removal.
- Inletting tools to precisely shape the bedding area. This will improve the fit and finish.
Conclusion on Brownells Gun Bedding Kit
The Brownells Gun Bedding Kit delivers on its promise of improved rifle accuracy through a user-friendly bedding compound. Acraglas provides a stable and durable platform for rifle actions.
The price is more than justified given the performance gains. It’s an excellent value for anyone looking to enhance their rifle’s accuracy without breaking the bank.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Brownells Gun Bedding Kit to fellow shooters and hobbyists. It is a cost-effective and reliable solution for achieving better accuracy and consistency. Get yourself a kit and start improving your rifle’s performance today!