How Much Does it Cost to Cut and Rethread a Barrel?

Barrel cutting and rethreading is a gunsmithing procedure that involves shortening the barrel’s length and adding threads to the muzzle. This process is often necessary for various reasons, such as attaching suppressors, muzzle devices, or simply altering the firearm’s appearance and performance. However, the cost of this procedure can vary significantly depending on several factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore these factors and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the cost associated with cutting and rethreading a barrel.

How Much Does it Cost to Cut and Rethread a Barrel?

The cost to cut and rethread a barrel typically ranges from $100 to $600 or more, depending on factors like barrel material, length, thread type, gunsmithing fees, location, and additional services. Prices may vary, so it’s advisable to get quotes from reputable gunsmiths for accurate estimates.

Factors Influencing Cost	Cost Range
Barrel Material	$100 – $600+
Barrel Length	$100 – $600+
Thread Type	$100 – $600+
Gunsmithing Fees	$100 – $600+
Location	$100 – $600+
Additional Services	$50 – $200+

2. Why Cut and Rethread a Barrel?

Before we dive into the cost considerations, let’s briefly discuss why someone might want to cut and rethread a barrel:

• Muzzle Device Installation: Many gun owners choose to add muzzle devices like compensators, flash hiders, or suppressors to their firearms. To do this, the barrel needs to be threaded to accommodate these accessories.
• Caliber Change: Some gun enthusiasts may wish to convert their firearm to a different caliber. This often requires altering the barrel, including cutting and rethreading it to fit the new caliber.
• Barrel Maintenance and Restoration: Older firearms may have barrels that are damaged, corroded, or worn out. In such cases, cutting and rethreading the barrel can help restore the firearm to its original condition.
• Aesthetic Reasons: Some gun owners simply want to change the appearance of their firearm by modifying the barrel length and adding threads for cosmetic purposes.

3. The Barrel Cutting and Rethreading Process

The barrel cutting and rethreading process typically involves the following steps:

• Assessment: The gunsmith assesses the firearm and discusses the specific requirements with the owner, including the desired barrel length and thread specifications.
• Barrel Preparation: The gunsmith secures the firearm and ensures it is safe to work on. The barrel is then removed from the firearm.
• Cutting: Using specialized tools, the gunsmith precisely cuts the barrel to the desired length. This step requires extreme precision to maintain accuracy and safety.
• Threading: After cutting, threads are added to the muzzle end of the barrel. The type and pitch of the threads depend on the intended use, such as attaching a specific muzzle device.
• Finishing: The threaded portion of the barrel is often finished to ensure smooth operation and aesthetic appeal. This may involve crowning the muzzle or applying a protective finish.
• Reassembly: Finally, the barrel is reattached to the firearm, and the entire assembly is function-tested to ensure safety and reliability.

4. Factors Influencing the Cost

Several factors can influence the cost of cutting and rethreading a barrel. Understanding these factors will help you estimate the expenses more accurately:

• Barrel Material: The material of the barrel plays a significant role in the cost. Stainless steel barrels tend to be more expensive to work on than carbon steel barrels due to their hardness and durability.
• Barrel Length: The longer the barrel, the more time and effort it takes to cut and rethread it. Therefore, shorter barrels are generally less expensive to modify.
• Thread Type: The type and complexity of the threading required can impact the cost. For example, standard threading for common accessories may cost less than custom or exotic threading.
• Gunsmithing Fees: The fees charged by the gunsmith for their time and expertise are a significant part of the cost. Experienced gunsmiths may charge more for their services.
• Location: The cost of gunsmithing services can vary depending on your location. Urban areas with a higher cost of living tend to have higher gunsmithing rates.
• Additional Services: If you need additional services, such as refinishing the barrel or installing sights, this will add to the overall cost.

5. Cost Range for Barrel Cutting and Rethreading

While the cost of barrel cutting and rethreading can vary widely, here is a general cost range to provide you with a ballpark estimate:

• Basic Barrel Cut and Thread: For a standard barrel cut and threading job without any exotic materials or custom threading, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300.
• Custom Work and Exotic Materials: If you require custom threading or have a barrel made from a more challenging material, the cost can range from $300 to $600 or more.
• Additional Services: Any additional services, such as refinishing or sight installation, can add anywhere from $50 to $200 to the total cost.

It’s important to note that these are rough estimates, and the actual cost can vary based on the factors mentioned earlier.

6. Choosing a Gunsmith

Selecting a reputable and experienced gunsmith is crucial to ensure the quality of the barrel cutting and rethreading job. Here are some tips for choosing a gunsmith:

• Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from fellow firearm enthusiasts or shooting clubs. Personal referrals can be valuable in finding a trustworthy gunsmith.
• Check Credentials: Ensure that the gunsmith is licensed and has the necessary certifications to perform firearm modifications legally and safely.
• Read Reviews: Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge the gunsmith’s reputation and quality of work.
• Get Quotes: Don’t hesitate to reach out to multiple gunsmiths and request quotes for your specific job. This allows you to compare costs and services.
• Visit the Shop: If possible, visit the gunsmith’s shop in person to assess their equipment, cleanliness, and professionalism.
• Ask Questions: Feel free to ask the gunsmith about their experience with barrel cutting and rethreading, their turnaround times, and any warranties they offer on their work.

7. DIY vs. Professional Gunsmithing

While some experienced firearm enthusiasts may consider attempting barrel cutting and rethreading as a DIY project, it’s essential to understand the risks and challenges involved. Professional gunsmiths have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure the job is done safely and accurately.

DIY attempts can lead to:

• Safety hazards if the firearm is mishandled.
• Reduced firearm value if the modification is not done correctly.
• Potential legal issues if the modification violates firearm laws.

If you’re not confident in your gunsmithing skills, it’s advisable to seek professional help to avoid these potential pitfalls.

8. Conclusion

Cutting and rethreading a barrel is a common gunsmithing procedure that serves various purposes, from attaching accessories to changing calibers. The cost of this modification can vary significantly based on factors like barrel material, length, thread type, gunsmithing fees, location, and additional services. Understanding these factors and choosing a reputable gunsmith are essential steps in ensuring a successful and safe barrel cutting and rethreading job. Remember that while DIY may be an option for some, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and quality when modifying firearms.