Adding a bridle?

[awreis]

How difficult, if possible, would it be to add a bridle to this lock? It's a CVA lock if that helps? I know a bridle was made for CVA locks but didn't know if it fit only certain models.

 

[Phil Coffins]

If your tumbler had a pivot axle like this one it can be done as I did.
IMG_0403 by Oliver Sudden, on Flickr
Figure where and what size holes to make and machine to size.
IMG_0404 by Oliver Sudden, on Flickr

 

[kyron4]

I just added an older CVA bridle to my Traditions lock. CVA did make a bridle on later models. My tumbler was like the one in Phil's picture and has the center support lug. As far as the CVA bridle, I had to drill the support hole for the lug larger to 5mm , open up the recesses for the screw heads, and drill and tap a M3x0.5 hole in the lock plate. If you get a newer Traditions bridle and tumbler (Log Cabin Shop has them) it should drop right in, and the threaded hole and screws is all that's needed.

I can tell you this, it was a night and day differences in how smooth and easier the hammer felt when pulled to full cock. It also improved the trigger pull by a pound and gave it a crisp let off. Best thing I ever did to that rifle, and the lock should last much longer now.

Here's a stock photo from the inter webs of the CVA/Traditions bridle and how it fits, for reference.

 

[kyron4]

Also, I did have to slightly inlet the lock mortise on the stock for the bridle. Very minimal in a few places.