Well, It Seemed Like A Good Idea...

Opus Dei · 09-12-2012, 07:54 PM

First off, I have a model 10. IDK that it will ultimately be important, but FWIW I make mention of it.

I took advantage of the recent Numrich sale and got a .300 RUM barrel for fun and to use as a test for nitriding. Going in, I knew the round was far too long for anything other than single-loading. Fine; not a problem. And I already have a complete model 10 magnum bolt assembly awaiting my 7 WSM barrel, so I was GTG on that. As it so happened, I got the barrel, headspace gauges and a box of ammo today and of course went straight to it.

When headspacing, I inserted the Go gauge into the bolt head and kept it straight as it chambered. Then I ejected it and inserted the No-Go gauge into the bolt head, keeping it straight as it centered. Bolt won't close, as expected. so far, so good. Repeat the process a couple more times for reassurance; all is well. So, I try to chamber a round; naturally, I have to insert it at an angle. The bolt won't close, and it's obvious the rim has not set into the bolt head. I try slipping the Go gauge in the chamber and closing the bolt. Again, it will not seat the rim into the bolt face.

Any ideas why the rim won't become captive in the bolt head if it's not retained while inserting the round? It is a PITA to insert a cartridge into the head and with my fingers guide it into the chamber, but if I do, it seems to work fine as far as retaining it while ejecting. Thanks for any help.

cgeorgemo · 09-12-2012, 07:59 PM

I'm guessing that it is the angle the rim is trying to engage the bolt head at. It might need to be at an angle to the extractor that is only achieved from below as if it were stripping the round from a loaded magazine.

**Blue Avenger** · 09-12-2012, 08:18 PM

What did your extractor come from? .223 would be too long.

Opus Dei · 09-12-2012, 09:13 PM

I'm guessing that it is the angle the rim is trying to engage the bolt head at.

I'd kinda thought about that, but ruled it out as I believe not a factor for other single-loaders. I rebarreled with the .243 factory barrel immediately after the failed RUM chambering test, and merely sticking a Go gauge partway into the chamber the bolt head was able to capture the rim while locking.

What did your extractor come from? .223 would be too long.

I bought a complete bolt assembly through Gun Shack. Since the bolt head comes stripped, they thoughtfully ordered the missing components at the same time. I presume they got the right ones; IDK if they have a master parts manual or got with Savage to spec the stuff.

Opus Dei · 09-14-2012, 12:00 AM

I decided to try it again. Re-headspaced/confirmed with the gauges captive in the bolt head. All good. Tried to slip gauges in and rely upon camming to seat rim. A couple of times they seated. I try to chamber ammo and have somewhat better luck. I can generally get the rim to seat with ~normal effort; a faster cycling enhances the chance.

It's not "right" but it works. As it's not destined for hunting (on this short action), I think I'll be fine to run a box of ammo though it in preparation for nitriding. Hope to be able to try it this weekend.

Baryngyl · 09-14-2012, 03:59 AM

My new extractor I bought a year or so ago for a magnum bolt face did the same thing, turned out the angle on the front was not quite right, I smoothed it up with a fine-cut file and it works great now.

Michael Grace

Opus Dei · 09-14-2012, 06:38 AM

Originally Posted by Baryngyl

My new extractor I bought a year or so ago for a magnum bolt face did the same thing, turned out the angle on the front was not quite right, I smoothed it up with a fine-cut file and it works great now.

Michael Grace

That makes sense. I looked at length and it seemed fine, but never considered the leading edges.

Thanks; I will look into that.