How to fix loose forearm on Browning BAR

[hometheaterman]

So I'm starting to think the loose forearm on my early 90's or late 80's Browning BAR might be the issue with my accuracy. Anyway, it's loose on the receiver end where nothing holds it. It's tight where the sling stud holds it, but since that's all that holds it, it's loose on the other end. I was told that it should not be loose at all. I tightened the sling stud as much as I could. I even broke one off it was so tight. Still didn't fix my issue. I bought another forearm off of Gunbroker thinking maybe I crushed the wood on this one from over tightening it and the other forearm still is the same way. It's still loose. Any suggestions?

 

[shootr]

I can't help you - but I have the same problem. Hoping someone knows.

 

[Tommygunn]

I had a rifle like that and I cut a length of rubber band and stuffed it in the front of the receiver between the metal and the forend. That solved the problem. I'm sure other material could be used.
Just check it periodically as solvents could degrade the rubber.
Silicon might actually be a better idea ......

 

[hometheaterman]

Did the loose forearm cause accuracy issues for either of you guys?

 

[jmorris]

Have you modified the forearm?

 

[hometheaterman]

Well, I did sand it down so that it wasn't touching the barrel, however, it was loose for me for 2 years before I did that. The replacement forearm I have has not been modified at all and it's still loose. It's just nothing holding it on at that end and just slides over the receiver. I guess it's supposed to be such a tight fit it won't move, but then I don't see how you would get it on so I don't know.

 

[zhyla]

Not to be confused with M1918 Browning Automatic Rifle.

Ah, thank you wikipedia.

 

[hometheaterman]

Yeah, this is a Browning BAR hunting rifle from the late 80's or early 90's. NOT the old military rifle.

 

[hometheaterman]

Bump any other ideas?

 

[52grain]

Talk to a knowledgeable gunsmith.