Loose Bolt

[Alex G.]

Hi All! New member here.
I just received my 10GLXP3 in 308Win. Its a great looking gun and I'm very glad so far that I purchased it. I did alot or research on Savages and their reputation was the reason I purchased one. Yeah I know... the scope & rings are medium at best, but until next hunting season roles around, they are what I have. But my question is: Without a round in the chamber, after the trigger has been pulled and the firing pin, fired, is the bolt supposed to lossen up in the action? WHen the bolt is cycled, everything is locked up tight and there is no "wiggle" allowed in the bolt, but after its fired, the bolt seems to loosen up just a bit and there is a bit on up and down play. Normal?

Thanks
Alex G

[J.Baker]

Yep, perfectly normal for a Savage. Unlike a Remington, Winchester, etc. the Savage bolt is made up of several pieces. When it's cocked, the tension of the firing pin spring keeps everything nice and tight. When you pull the trigger though, that tension is released and results in the "looseness" you are referring to.

[Alex G.]

Awesome... thanks!

[Woodser]

I believe the floating bolt head contributes to the loose feel when uncocked.