How Important is the Muzzle Crown for Accuracy?

The muzzle end of a rifle, or the crown, is an important element of rifle accuracy. There are several different popular styles of muzzle crown: standard, deep recess, recess target, 11-degree target, and flat.

No matter what type of crown you have, the inside edge is the most important part. The crown on this barrel is damaged:

Even a tiny burr can ruin the accuracy of your rifle. The best way to crown a rifle barrel is on the lathe, but there are also hand tools that will do the job almost as well. Begin by facing off the muzzle to remove the old, damaged crown.

Using a lathe file, round off the outside edge of the muzzle.

Set the compound slide to 11 degrees, then cut the crown.

Emery cloth, a little thumb power, some abrasive compound, and the lapping tool finish the job.

When you think about rifle accuracy, don't forget the crown.

--Larry Potterfield