Thanks much. The forging was from 762SASS. You're correct in that it does take a fair amount of machinery and tooling to complete a raw forging, plus the ability to read blueprints. The tap is one I have already used a couple times and yes it was difficult to bite the bullet when purchasing it (tap). The work I do in my shop is strictly for myself. On occasion I'll do some work for my "Street Rodding" friends, but that's about it. As for Hardcoating, Google it and see what you can find. My receiver is finished with Duracoat®, and for myself, I found that to be an affordable option. If you're looking into building an AR308, take a look over at Tactical machining, they have many options for the guy that wants to do it himself. I also frequent the forums over at CNC Gunsmithing, where you can learn a lot by just lurking..... Johnny V NRA Life Member 1976