New Shilen Select Match

I installed a new 6.5-284 Shilen SM on a 110 action and I’m about ready to start break-in. Before shooting the rifle I’m in the process of cleaning the barrel. I wanted to make sure nothing was left in the barrel from the chambering process. I’m getting a little blue on my patch which is an indication of copper. Where did the copper come from? Is this normal? I’m sure it’s not a big deal just curious. I’m using Bore Tech Eliminator solvent.

Edit: Think I may have my answer...may coming from the Dewey Jag.

Yep, likely your jag.

Select match are usually hand lapped so should be no residue left

Use a nickel plated or aluminium jag. THEN see if there is copper residue on the patch. Without either of these being used, you can have repeated copper residue on 100 patches before you see the light. It happened to me.

I would not have used a copper remover on the new barrel, not saying your were wrong in doing so. I'm no expert by any means.

I found my new Shilen Select Match barrel to be remarkably clean. I just use a few patches and Hoppes to verify and called it good. I didn't notice much of anything on the patches.

I performed no break-in either, just load and shoot. I don't have time for all the break-in mumbo jumbo. I used to do it, just don't feel like I achieved much when I did. 5 shots to zero and all consecutive groups were nice.

On custom, lapped barrels there should be no break in. The lapping process does the job much better than anything else. I'd not expect to find any remaining residue and they should clean up easily. That's what you pay the extra money for.

Thanks for all of the responses

I would mirror the routine of NicfromAlbama.
in addition scrub with C-4 and bore tech Eliminator after shooting though. Cooper build up on a layer of Carbon gets nasty

C4 works great BTW. Also, My Shilen select match was also very clean NIB.

yup, Its a Shilen, even Shilen says their hand lapped barrels dont need break in. it only makes the shooter feel better....LOL

Hope it shoots lights out for you!
James

James I hope it does too. I’m up in Minot ND and it’s been cold as hell so I have not been able to shoot it yet. As soon as I get out I will give a range report.

HSargent,
Let us know how it does, Ive seen some great Shilen barrels!
James