Abstract: An apparatus and method for conveniently and easily applying a dry sliding lubricant to the interior and exterior surfaces of a cartridge case neck prior to sizing is provided.

Abstract: A method for lapping of gun barrels on fully assembied firearms is provided using cartridges fitted with lapping bullets impregnated with abrasive. The present invention provides a process for simultaneously impregnating a quantity of lapping bullets with an abrasive, in which a quantity of unlubricated bullets are placed in a tumbler with steel balls and quantity of the desired abrasive. The speed of rotation of the tumbler, and the shape of the tumbler are selected so that the bullet/abrasive/tumbling media mix folds on itself, thus providing an even impregnation of abrasive on the bullets and minimizing any deformation of the bullets. The mixture is allowed to tumble for a period of time, typically about an hour, after which a sufficient quantity of the abrasive is firmly embedded on the surface of each bullet. The abrasive impregnated bullets can then be coated with a protective and lubricating finish, such as carnauba wax, if desired.

Abstract: A fixture for measuring runout in firearm cartridges, casings and bullets is provided. The fixture holds the cartridge at the tip and forward of the rim for rotation. A self centering tip bearing holds the tip of the cartridge, casing or bullet for rotation about an axis of rotation. The exterior surface of the cartridge, casing or bullet is supported in a V-shaped knife edge bearing. The distance from the knife edge bearing to the tip bearing is adjustable to accommodate various cartridge sizes. Interchangeable tip bearing tools are provided for rotatably holding bullets and casings, and for locating areas of variation in the thickness of the casing wall. The thickness indicating tool has a flat surface offset from the cartridge axis, which rests against the curved interior surface of a casing, forming a chord which supports the interior surface at two points. The gauge arm, placed on the outside of the casing between the two points, can then measure the relative thickness of the casing wall.