Currently working on the Modelo Polylactico and was wondering if anyone else had a good solution for sanding the longer Intermediate shells. I had no issues using a 6mm drill bit + painters tape shim as a mandrel for the Beginner 209 shells, but the Intermediates don’t have enough surface area or depth due to their smaller holes to stay on the other smaller drill bits I’ve tried. I suppose I could force/tap an M2 or M3 screw into the top powder hole but would widening the hole cause issues if its sealed well?
I also noticed that the shell models had inconsistent rim thicknesses in Orca.
- Headspace gauge/jig rim: 1.8mm thick
- Intermediate .355 rim: 1.6mm thick
- Beginner 209 slug and shotshell rims: 1.2mm thick
Obviously there would be an issue if the 1.2mm rims were used to headspace, preventing the thicker shells from loading, but wouldn’t too much headspace also cause trouble like light strikes and case bulge/FTEs?
Appreciate the update. I’m assuming that .357 mag isn’t recommended if the hot .327 are causing trouble?
357 is not going to fare well long term with the current design. Everything should be good to go for 38 special, even using +P loads.
I have a couple of ideas to reinforce the action, but printing the hammer and breech in CF nylon may be all it takes. I will get around to it eventually.
As expected, the optional steel safety plates do not reinforce the action. I have tried them on the 327 with no change in results.
Sounds good, .38spl is very pleasant to shoot and cheaper anyway haha.
I’d be interested in the reinforcement ideas. The hammer looks like it could be cast out of a metal like Zamak. The breech might be too complex but I bet there is a way to cast it too, maybe in parts, then cleaned up using jigs like 80% frames/lowers. SCS inserts for contact surfaces could be an option too.