Cracked my first nut today. Thank you to the members!
I just wanted to thank everyone who has taken the time to provide instruction and encouragement to those interested in Savage barrel swaps.
I "cracked my first nut" today - an old Stevens 200 7mm-08. It was tough. It took me about 10 tries to get the barrel secured in the vise, but I finally did it thanks to a tip about table sugar.
I am a pretty accomplished mechanic and consider myself handy with tools, but I didn't expect the sense of accomplishment I felt today when that barrel nut came loose.
So thanks to all of you who posted advice and encouragement. You never know how many folks you've helped along the way.