A poster wrote me to ask about converting his RF Cadet to CF and restocking, and I thought my response might be of interest to others. The response is rather short & basic but does deal with a few recurring Cadet concerns. Cadets are cool but can be a problem sometimes. My response follows:
'Your RF Cadet can be converted to CF in several ways and I've done most of them. I recommend that the striker nose be reduced in dia at that time, for the anticipated higher-pressure cartridge. The standard 223 and the Improved version can both be used with a rimless extractor conversion, available from several sources in several designs. Please be advised that the high pressure of the 223 can cause sticky extraction since the Cadet has no primary extraction and somewhat weak extractor leverage. This is usually not a big problem but many folks prefer to use a rimmed cartridge for a more positive grab on the cartridge rim. I personally use the 357 Maximum case wildcatted into a rimmed 222, also an Improved Zipper chambering works well with the Cadet. A Scottish fellow of my acquaintance uses the 5.6x50R cartridge, a longer European version of the 223 with slightly more velocity.
'Your plans to use a pistol-grip stock can be problematic if not approached properly. It's very difficult to get a smooth even bend when altering the lever, and many attempts result in unwanted curves and lumps. I prefer to use either the original straight grip or else the lever from the later 12/15 or 15 that already has a tight PG curve formed in it. It's sometimes necessary to apply considerable force to the Cadet lever when a stubborn CF case sticks in the chamber, and a lever that's been heated for custom alteration is necessarily weaker and the greater extraction force can result in an unwanted kink if not re-hardened.
'At present I own 3 Cadets that I built myself: one Francotte Improved Zipper with PG, one Greener takedown wildcat 222 Rimmed with straight grip and one BSA standard Zipper with straight grip. I do not recommend the standard Zipper but the Improved version works splendidly as does the 222 Rimmed on the Maxi case. The custom bent lever on the Improved has caused lots of problems and I'm not completely happy with it yet. Most custom-bent Cadet levers are a PITA.'
Well, there's my response and I'm officially now soliciting your comments, questions, concerns and experiences. I like Cadets and wish to expand my knowledge base, your photos would be greatly appreciated!
Regards, Joe
