Thread: Tips on reaming a chamber

I use a floating holder and ream chambers in the lathe to about 90% depth, taking great care to ensure bore is perfectly true before starting. I also drill a pilot hole first (about 75% of the chamber) to reduce work on the reamer. Go slow, use lots of oil and withdraw and thoroughly clean the reamer frequently. Finish the chamber by hand, and only 5-6 revolutions before cleaning. I fit the barrel at about 98% chamber depth, break the chamber edge carefully, then headspace with a reamer extension.