Filling in scope mount screw holes

[kelljp]

I am looking for suggestions on the best approach to filling in holes drilled in the barrel.
Purchased a classic gun that the previous owner had a scope mounted on.
The holes detract from the appearance of the firearm. The rifle shoots good, so there are no structural issues just visual.

 

[AlexanderA]

Do you want to fill the holes permanently or temporarily? If temporarily (in other words, you might want to use them again in the future), use some nice domed filler screws. I believe Ace Hardware has them.

For a permanent fix, use a longer screw, cut it off, and carefully file it flush with the barrel. Touch up with a spot of cold blue. (Use a thread locker when you install the screw.)

 

[kelljp]

Wonder what the thread is on a base screw !
Good idea, I'll try ACE hardware.

 

[Jim Watson]

Most sight and scope base screws are 6-48. Some 8-40 on hard kickers.

 

[dfariswheel]

If you can't find dome head plug screw locally, Brownell's carry them in blued and stainless............

https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-...ware/metal-screws/plug-screw-kit-prod792.aspx

 

[kelljp]

If you can't find dome head plug screw locally, Brownell's carry them in blued and stainless............

https://www.brownells.com/gunsmith-...ware/metal-screws/plug-screw-kit-prod792.aspx

Thanks, Ace didn't have them.

 

[Frulk]

Check with Numrich or Midwestern Gun Works. Outside chance they may have them. While doing a once over on some guns last week I noticed a Marlin SSV was missing the front barrel lug bolt and a Marlin Cowboy was missing a left side trigger guard plate support screw.

Both arrived today and are installed and guns are 100% again.

https://www.midwestgunworks.com/

https://www.gunpartscorp.com/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic

 

[Jim Watson]

Do you have a name brand scope? If you ask nicely, they might give you some plug screws.

 

[AlexanderA]

Note that there are two types of filler (plug) screws. There's the straight type (that's like a slotted set screw), and there's the domed type. The domed type has a slight, barely perceptible, shoulder so that it doesn't risk bottoming out in the hole. Gun manufacturers often save a few cents by supplying the straight type filler screws. (This was the case with the last Ruger pistol I bought. I replaced them with the domed type.)

 

[kelljp]

Do you have a name brand scope? If you ask nicely, they might give you some plug screws.

Good idea ! I'll give that a shot after the holidays.