J.K. Hawken Rifle Kit — Step 4: Installing Underlugs and Sights in the Barrel

Video for this step: https://kiblerslongrifles.com/v/hawken-4

Hold the barrel in a padded vise and start the underlug marked “1” in the dovetail nearest the breech. One side of the underlug has a slight lead to allow it to start easier. Insert this side first.

Tap into place using a wood dowel and hammer or a plastic-tipped mallet. Center the underlug on the barrel flat.

Repeat this process for underlug 2.

Install the front and rear sights in a similar manner. Note that these do not have a “lead” to the dovetail. It is a good idea to break the corner of each dovetail with a file prior to inserting them into the barrel. Slight fit adjustment may be necessary, which can be done by filing the edge of the sight to the proper fit.

Tip: On the Hawken, the two underlugs are held by flat keys rather than pins. The keys and their inlays (escutcheons) are installed in Step 6, after the barrel is fit to the stock.