Book Review by David R. Chicoine 11/17/02
1996, AG Media. Softcover · 8-1/2 x 11, 256 pages · 500 b&w photos, Krause Publications. Dept. BNP, P.O. Box 5009, Iola, WI 54945-5009. (800) 258-0929. $21.95 plus $4. P&H (Please tell them Bullet 'N Press sent you!)
(American Gunsmith is a magazine directed at the gunsmithing trade and one for which this reviewer is presently a regular contributing editor. The information contained in the book Practical Gunsmithing was compiled before this reviewer became involved with that publication. For further information or to subscribe you may contact "American Gunsmith, P.O. Box 420234, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0234 or e-mail customer service at customer_service@belvoir.com" )
This book is actually a compilation of articles previously published in American Gunsmith Magazine. These articles were written with the professional gunsmith in mind although most if not all of the topics will also be of interest to the home gunsmith, hobbyist and tinkerer. In it, American Gunsmith editors troubleshoot some of the more common problems associated with firearms and explain how to correct them. They also outline technical methods for bench work, as well as how to choose tools and measuring instruments.
The many small articles that make up this book give the reader a good look at practical methods used by these working gunsmiths to touch up blue, measure a chamber, checker metal, repair a broken gunstock, mount a scope and a host other interesting and useful topics. Handguns, shotguns and rifles are covered as well as many workshop techniques. The varied subjects are from many writers who all have different writing styles and some are better than others, however, the information should be considered as highly valuable.
I would recommend this book as a standard bench-reference for the library of any gunsmith, whether they are a working pro or a talented amateur.