Comp Reamers

[gary meyer]

when speaking of comp reamers what does the pilot number mean? brownells sells 2 for 38 super but each has a different pilot number. thanks also what is the proper way to use it.

[Bret Heidkamp]

I've used the EGW 9mm comp reamer with great success in my supers. (38 super barrels are built on a 9mm / .355 bore size). It looks like the other EGW size is for .358 bores.

This is how I've done it in the past, works for me:

Since it is piloted, I don't want to put it in a lathe as would not allow the pilot to work. So, I clamp the barrel in a vise and chuck the reamer in a hand drill. Use lots of cutting oil, and point the barrel down so you don't get chips up into the barrel (which will scrape around). I clean the chips out before they build up too much. Usually that's one plate at a time.

The whole process takes about 10 minutes.

Hope this helps - the piloted reamer is really easy to use - much faster than boring the comp in a lathe / measuring / bore some more / measure...

[Brazos Custom]

The 38super will work with most barrels I have seen (land diameter 0.346), the smaller diameter reamer is usually for Nowlin barrels their bore (land diameter) is a little smaller. You want the rod to be snug in the bore but not drag.

[gary meyer]

thanks guys...............................................................