Man survives shot to the face after rifle malfunctions

[Thump_rrr]

First of all anyone who sees the picture of the cartridge will be able to point out that the cartridge actually blew up and he was hit with brass shrapnel.
He claims he attempted to chamber the cartridge 3 times before it went off.
Assuming it wasn't a hangfire what could have caused the round to go off?
Someone on another forum saw a picture showing a properly struck primer.


http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/hunter-survives-shot-face-1.3811399

[LoneWolf]

Looks like a Savage Axis. I bet he tried to smooth out the bolt lift and removed some material from the cocking ramp or something. Doesn't say if it was a reload or factory ammo, but could have been the wrong ammo or something. I have seen the firing pin drop on Savages if the rear bolt that holds the bolt together gets loose. Lots of things to consider.

[yobuck]

Well as a young teenager I stood about 10' from my father as a 1917 sporterised Enfield blew up in his face, making him appear just like that guy.
Scary stuff, and something that for sure sticks in your mind. In his case it was a headspace issue, no doubt caused by the prior owner who fancied himself to be a gunsmith.
Buyer, be very aware and take no chances.