Headspace Gauges

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the procurement of Headspace Gauges. The government is seeking to acquire these gauges to meet specific operational requirements.

• The solicitation details specifications for headspace gauges for various calibers, including "GO" (minimum) and "NO-GO" (maximum) dimensions, and diameter specifications.

• Gauges must be made of high-alloy tool steel (AISI O1 or O2) and heat-treated to Rockwell Hardness of 58-60 HRC.

• Geometric tolerances require perpendicularity within 0.0002" TIR.

• Surface finish requirements are specified for bearing surfaces (16 microinches Ra or better) and other surfaces (32 microinches Ra or better).

• Each gauge must be permanently labeled with "SAAMI MINIMUM (GO)" or "NATO MINIMUM (GO)", "SAAMI MAXIMUM (NO-GO)" or "NATO MAXIMUM (NO-GO)", nominal headspace dimension, caliber, and manufacturer's identification.

• Third-party certification/calibration is required for critical dimensions, including Go/No-Go dimensions, perpendicularity, and diameter. The report must include specific details such as gauge identification, date of calibration, laboratory information, instruments used, measurement data, and statement of conformity.

• Vendors must provide CAD drawings for each gauge, including critical dimensions, tolerances, material specifications, heat treatment, surface finish, datum surfaces, and revision level.

• Individual packaging is required in a labeled, durable storage container.

• The contract is a Firm Fixed Price type.

• The contract has a minimum quantity of 1 and a maximum contract value of $2,000,000.00.

• The contract period of performance is structured into five potential contract years.

• This is a competitive requirement, 100% set aside for Small Business.

• Evaluation will be based on Low Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) criteria.

• Evaluation factors include Technical Approach and Past Performance.

• Technical Approach requires product literature or a capabilities document demonstrating how the vendor will meet specifications and drawings, evaluated via a GO/NO GO matrix.

• Past Performance will be evaluated based on the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS).

• A responsive quote must include a signed SF 1449, all pricing entered on CLINs, product literature/capabilities document, a completed Technical Evaluation Matrix, proof of being a small business, and a current SAM.gov account.

• The Government will review quotes in three phases: Responsiveness, Technical Acceptance, and Pricing.

• This acquisition is a 100% set-aside for Small Business.

• The solicitation includes numerous FAR and DFARS clauses incorporated by reference and in full text, covering areas such as contract administration, payment instructions, unique item identification, safeguarding sensitive arms, ammunition, and explosives, and representations regarding telecommunications equipment.

• The offer due date is May 12, 2026, at 12:00 PM local time.

• The solicitation issue date is April 29, 2026.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains technical drawings and specifications for shoulder-breaching centerfire rifle headspace gauges. It provides detailed dimensions, tolerances, material requirements, and heat treatment specifications for various rifle cartridges.

• Figure I & II: Diagrams illustrating the geometry of shoulder-breaching and belt-breaching headspace gauges, respectively.
• Cartridge Table: Lists specific cartridges (e.g., 6.5 Creedmoor, 7.62x39, 5.56mm NATO) and their corresponding "GO" (minimum) and "NO-GO" (maximum) headspace dimensions in inches.
• Material & Heat Treatment: Specifies SAE-AISI 06 steel or equivalent, heat-treated to Rockwell C 60-64.
• Tolerances: General tolerances of ±.005 inches are specified, with tighter tolerances for critical dimensions.
• Notes: Includes information on surface finish, corner breaks, optional features like extractor clearance and centers, and requirements for gauge record cards and labeling.
• Specific Cartridge Notes: Mentions NATO reference drawings for 7.62x51 and 5.56mm, and a belt-breaching SAAMI drawing for 300 Winchester Magnum.

This document is crucial for any bidder involved in manufacturing, procuring, or inspecting headspace gauges for the specified rifle cartridges. It defines the precise physical dimensions and quality standards that the gauges must meet. Bidders must ensure their products conform to these specifications to be considered compliant.