SL8/G36 US-Built Operating Rod

922 compliance requires US-built parts.  So here's another one.

The raw material can be 3/8" or 1/4" 4130 steel rod from Aircraft Spruce

I hardened the ends by clamping in a drill press and heating with a MAPP torch.  I quenched it after it turned cherry red.  This should make the rod a bit on the brittle side of the scale.  I heated a 2nd time not so hot to stress-relieve the rod.

The only critical dimension is the diameter of the front-most area that fits inside the piston (0.234") and the rear-most area that slides inside the stock to contact the carrier (0.197").  These areas should be as close to spec as possible. 

The taper behind the cooling rings needs to be tall enough to retain the spring.  

All other dimensions, including the cooling rings, can be out of spec with no ill effects.

Pics to follow shortly...