Loose rib

[Fin2Feather]

I just noticed that the top rib on my A gauge 16 seems to be loose about 1/4" back from the muzzle. Is this repairable or will it require having the rib relayed? Can it be shot as is? Thanks...

[Lars33]

Hello fin2feather, had the same problem on a Parker. I used J-B Weld, great stuff. Use as directed and clamp it and you're good to go ! Fired many rounds and never had a problem. Regards

[Don Hansen]

Please do not use JB Weld or any other type of glue. This is not a proper or lasting repair and will make it that much harder to repair properly. The correct repair is to have the rib/ribs resoldered. There are some folk who will repair a loose rib without removing all the ribs and relaying them. The criteria is how rusty or pitted the rib/barrel is and if it can be completely cleaned so the solder can stick. This is not a do-it-yourself repair. If all the ribs are relayed the barrel will then need polished and rust blued. This is also not a do-it-yourself job unless you've practiced enough to know what you are doing. I'm not trying to discourage you but it's very frustrating to get nice guns in that have been improperly worked on by someone who didn't know how to properly do the job and then be expected to pull the job out of the fire. Remember, there are only so many old doubles left. Most of them deserve another chance to shine and continue to do what they were made for. Most of them are old and will need a little help now and then. They will pay you back in enjoyment many times over if you have the needed repairs done right. I'll get off my soap box now. All the best, Don Hansen.

[vaturkey]

Agree with not using JB weld. I bought a Sterly years ago and someone had repaired a rib with JB Weld and it stood out like a busted thumb with a pink bandaid. Many good gunsmiths experienced in doubles can do a spot repair, that may or may not hold over time. A pro will know pretty quick whether a spot repair can be taken care of or whether you will need the entire rib relaid.

[Fin2Feather]

Sent it to Steve Bertrand a while back; it's back in the fold safe and sound.

[Brian Dudley]

You would be better off just letting it be and shoot it vs. using glue or JB Weld.

A minor repair in an area like that could likely be done without haveing to strip the whole rib or compromise the bluing. Worst case, if it gets worse, you were going to have to strip and relay anyway.

Fix it right or not at all.

Besides, you would be surprised how many fox barrels have snall voids in the solder joints from the factory.