Consumer

Precision Bolt Action Engineering

Improving manufacture-ability while providing unmatched, differentiating accuracy via superior axial alignment.

Client:

AllTerra Arms

Services provided:

Product Design

Manufacturing Setup

Mechanical Engineering

Date:

2017

project summary

AllTerra had developed prototypes of an advanced, high-precision bolt-action rifle. But tolerance requirements in the action design made cost-effective manufacturing impossible.

Challenge

Maintain Supreme Accuracy

Accuracy is the primary product differentiator, and could not be compromised. In depth analysis identified options to reduce the tolerance requirements in many mechanical features while still providing the same level of firing precision in the system.

AllTerra identified a niche in the market for a super high precision rifle system, for the high end hunter. The concept was based on a ubiquitous and proven rifle action platform, but incorporated specific proprietary changes that would provide significant improvements in breech alignment with the bore. Initial prototypes had proven the theory, but the system was too expensive and difficult to manufacture at scale. AllTerra engaged SGW Designworks to identify options for design changes that would maintain the critical differentiating functionality of the concept, but would allow for faster, less expensive production.

delivery

Part-by-Part Analysis

By analyzing every single part singularly, and as a system, the SGW Designworks team was able to identify tolerances that could be changed to improve ease of production. All without compromising performance.

Since SGW Designworks regular works on firearms related development projects, the team was comfortable taking this one one. The engineers at SGW are familiar with how firearms are used, firearms development best-practices, small arms engineering norms, all related manufacturing processes, and metallurgical / materials impacts.

A full design review, including a detailed analysis of tolerances for each design feature uncovered a number of opportunities for improvement. Changes were first tested in 3D virtual models, then with physical prototypes. The improvement work was executed using an iterative approach, making small and deliberate changes, then validating each before moving on to the next. As the design optimization work completed, SGW Designworks moved on to optimization of different product configuration, and design of new accessories for the rifle system.

The rifle system was launched, and is a commercial success. On the company website AllTerra Arms, customers can configure their rifle, which is then custom built to order. AllTerra is able to rely on SGW Designworks as an arm of their business, providing ongoing product design and engineering services, as well as design optimization for manufacturing.