Replica .50 M2 HB

[mmike956]

Here is the same receiver with the rivet flanges in place. No rivets yet. It may end up being weld spots. These flanges are plug welded to the side plates. The real top cover is there for reference. A hand made one will replace it.

[mmike956]

I dread those pawl brackets. I can't avoid them for much longer.

[mmike956]

More progress on the back plate while the pawl brackets are on hold. I hope the pictures are enough to explain the process.

[mmike956]

I've cheated a little with this back plate buffer tube. It is a repro from Mr. Bob Connor. He has many reject, demil, and repro pieces like this for replica builders. He can be reached at; [e-mail], He has helped me alot.

[Kev]

Keep up the good work Mike :-)

[mmike956]

Thanks, here's some more slow progress.

[mmike956]

I've been avoiding the pawl brackets as long as I can, now I must revisit them with dread. Here we go!

[mmike956]

Here is some progress on the barrel end of the replica. I've used 3/16ths plate for the side plates and 3/8thsX1 1/2 flat bar to space the 1 1/4 round barrel. A little has to be sanded from the flat bat to maintain the correct I.D. for the receiver. Maybe a 32nd off each flat bar is all it takes. Maybe not even that much. It depends on whether you'll be using a real top cover or a hand made one.

[mmike956]

Those brackets will take alot of work but they are highly visible and their absence or quality will be all too apparent. These deserve your best efforts. Since there is a mixed bag of materials being used on this project I plan to build a fire from twigs and wood lying about here and burn this replica and give the appearance that it was found in rusted condition after being lost for some decades. I welcome any input on this idea.
Mike

[woodsy]

Mike, as I am someone who does this sort of part with a milling machine, I must compliment you on your outstanding torch work!!

[mmike956]

Thank you!

[mmike956]

More progress on the pawl brackets and some small parts.

[mmike956]

All these parts after assembled will look much better after sitting in a bon fire for about 30 minutes. Maybe that galvanized fence post will lose its coating during the roast.

[Kev]

Don't forget to do the sausages before the galvanised fence post goes on the bonfire :-)

[mmike956]

Hey, that's a great idea! We have plenty of hickory wood here to do a great replica burning and cookout. I'll cook first and then lay the replica in the pyre for a thorough roasting. I'll have the camera ready for this one.
Mike