Converting Model 12 F-Class .308 to .223

[NoahbodyImportant]

Anybody have experience converting the Savage Model 12 F-TR (target action, single shot) .308 to .223?

I understand it is just a barrel and bolt face change? To me, I would think the feed ramp would be too low, as the center of the barrel will be higher because of the smaller caliber?

Thanks in advance.

[KMW1954]

Can't give a definitive response but I took a Model 11 from 243 to 223 with just a bolt head and front baffle and experienced no problem. Now I am also using a Model 12 223 Heavy Varmint barrel as well.

[charlie b]

Single shot target model? Didn't know there was a feed ramp. Cartridge just lays in the bottom of the receiver and bolt pushes it forward?

[Dave Hoback]

Single shot target model? Didn't know there was a feed ramp. Cartridge just lays in the bottom of the receiver and bolt pushes it forward?

Indeed. There will be no problem.

[NoahbodyImportant]

Thank you

[NoahbodyImportant]

This is the part Im thinking I need to get from MidwayUSA: Savage Arms Bolt Head Short Action Savage 10 to 16 Push Feed 223 Remington

Will I need to get any other parts: firing pin, firing pin spring, ejector or extractor? Or will everything from my .308 bolt transfer over?

[Dave Hoback]

As long as it’s this, everything will transfer. The Ejector & Extractor will come from the 308 Bolt Head. Everything else just stays in the bolt as it is.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1778434934?pid=548296

[NoahbodyImportant]

Thank you

[NoahbodyImportant]

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[Dave Hoback]

This. Again, these have no Ejector, which can be purchased atGunShack. https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1778631467?pid=631467

However, the 12F uses this bolt handle. https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1778193602?pid=193602

[NoahbodyImportant]

Thank you.

[KMW1954]

So why would you need a whole new bolt? As stated a new bolt head and front bolt baffle can be bought through Gun Shack for much less than a whole bolt. They are simple to swap, I did it with a Model 11 from 243 to 223. Took about 20 minutes, only because I dropped the ball.

[NoahbodyImportant]

So from Gun Shack, all I need to order is the short action bolt head and front bolt baffle? Do I need a different firing pin?

[Dave Hoback]

So from Gun Shack, all I need to order is the short action bolt head and front bolt baffle? Do I need a different firing pin?

If you already have all the other parts then yes, all you need is the bolt & baffle. No firing pin if you already have one. You indicated needing a complete bolt. I though this was different from the beginning portion of your thread which I previously answered & provided the link. The baffle isn’t even necessary but will work better.

Both parts are here. https://www.gunshack.com/savage-parts/savage-bolt-head

[Robinhood]

So from Gun Shack, all I need to order is the short action bolt head and front bolt baffle? Do I need a different firing pin?

You will not need a firing pin. Depending on the style firing pin you have(1 of 2) you may want to check the firing pin protrusion. It will probably work like it is but if you bought it used you might check for certain. .040" + or - .005".