Posted: 8/17/2016 11:49:43 AM EDT
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I am curious about the idea of being able to transition between several different pistol calibers that shoot the same diameter bullet using an interchangeable chamber. For simplicity, Ill use 9mm Luger and 357 SIG as the ammunition example, and the KelTec Sub2000 as the host example. My idea is to drill out and tap the chamber larger than the largest case diameter to be used. Then, make a couple of blank "plugs" that are threaded to match the chamber thread. Screw in the chamber plugs, then when fully seated, drill the chamber plugs for 9mm and 357 SIG. That way, to change calibers, simply unscrew the chamber plug for 9mm and screw in the chamber plug for 357 SIG. You would also need to change the bolt head for the KelTec Sub2000. Other guns would require different extractors or ejectors or possibly entire bolt heads depending on the firearm. However, the idea is you would be able to shoot multiple cartridges that have the same diameter bullets from the same barrel. Same concept could be applied to shoot 40 S&W and 10mm.
What I want to know from knowledgeable individuals, gunsmiths, and tinkerers (like me) is would something like this be feasible or is there something that makes this idea impossible to actually accomplish? Yes, I know a Glock 32 can shoot 9mm with the 9mm conversion barrel, 9mm recoil spring (depends on cycling issues) and 9mm mag. I want to try it on a pistol caliber long gun. |
| The only hitch in my mind would be ensuring there is enough meat in the chamber blank after threading, and in the chamber insert to keep things from cracking. I honestly see no reason why it couldnt work, it would just take a gunsmith willing to work outside of the box which I think would be the hangup due to possibility of litigation... |
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Ejector might be a serious issue as frequently guns cannot function without the caliber specific ejector. On the other hand I know the 92 series pistols only need a barrel change form .40 to 9mm. All the other parts interchange including magazines.
It's an intriguing idea but accuracy may suffer if the new chambers don't lock up tight and repeatably. Good luck OP. 
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| OP, I've switched between .357Sig and .40S&W with only a barrel change without any problems in Glocks and M&P's. But the calibers are so close you'd expect that to be the result. However, I've never successfully swapped barrels from say 9mm to .40S&W without the occasional hiccup. Even switching between .45acp and .45Super (both external cartridge dimensions are exact), you can't just swap recoil springs and expect it to run 100%. I had to swap Wolff extra Power mag springs, the appropriate extra power 23lb Wolff recoil spring, and the firing pin spring before .45Super would function perfectly. If you want a pistol that can shoot multiple caliber chamberings on the fly there is a revolver called The Medusa that will allow that to happen 100%. If I want another caliber from now on I'll have a separate pistol dedicated for that purpose. YMMV. |
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Fouling will be forced into the joint you will have to make provisions for a wrench to install and remove. If it doesn't get stuck permanently it will like vibrate loose. Murphy's laws and all...
Machining the plug to barrel interface will be a challenge for alignment and gas sealing. |