I read in a DIY forum last year that a paste with less water sticks better to vertical surfaces. They said it reduces drips and helps with a cleaner finish. One user mentioned mixing it to a peanut butter consistency for best results. From what I've seen, that trick really does make things less messy. It also saves time on cleanup later.

Love when things turn around like that lol. What was it about talking to the manager that made you forget the bad start? Was it just nice customer service, or did you get into a real conversation about something? Those random chats with strangers can be the best part of a day sometimes, makes the whole awkward fall worth it lmao.

Wait, I'm not convinced by that old timer's story. A mirror smooth chamber has always helped my rounds eject cleanly. I've polished several rifles myself and never had a headspace issue. Maybe your friend just messed up by using a drill instead of doing it by hand. A little common sense goes a long way with gun care. I still say a shiny chamber beats a rough one any day.

Might be a mixing problem, not the mortar.

Seriously, it's asking for trouble. I've seen guys accidentally reverse a hydraulic ram on a wood splitter because the lines weren't marked. One wrong hookup and you could blow a seal, ruin a gearbox, or even snap a piston rod. That's not just a quick fix, that's hundreds down the drain. Even if you know the system, under pressure anyone can mix up two plain black hoses. A little colored tape is the cheapest insurance you'll ever buy.