Savage 112 Model J .223

[joeelvis]

You know, sometimes I wonder how I became an old man. I was measuring from the front of the bolt head to the center of the retaining pin hole. The J bolt head is about 80k thicker than the newer head. I measured from the back of the head to center of retaining pin hole, it is right on the money. So a SA bolt head will work. I wish I could blame it on the booze, but I haven't had a drink in 15 years! Oh well, now the search for a .308 bolt head begins. Thanks for your help. Jogged my brain loose, got me to thinking.....

[Nor Cal Mikie]

Sometimes someone else looking at a situation comes up with a solution.

Funny that you mention becoming an old man. The wife and I were talking about old folks and I'll be darned if it wasn't us!!
At least we don't have to be "teen agers" again.
We woke up this morning so we're on a roll.

[sharpshooter]

The 110 short actions used a long action bolt head. The only difference between what they used then and now is the firing pin clearance hole is smaller on the new production AND the old ones have a notch in the tail that indexes the bolt head. You can either grind out the protrusion inside the bolt body, or notch the bolt head. You will still have to enlarge the firing pin hole.

[Nor Cal Mikie]

From the Man that knows.
And I have ground a few "index bumps".

[joeelvis]

I ordered a Pacific Tool bolt head, called them about the firing pin hole. They told me that unless it says bench rest in the description, it is a standard (large) hole. I also read a thread that said PTG heads are all small. I guess I will find out. They said they actually turned down the firing pin to cure the problem. A drill and fine garnet paper. I will grind out the "bump". Can the firing pin hole be drilled out to size? I really appreciate all the info. And, NOR CAL, you are only as old as you feel. At least, I keep telling myself that....

[Robinhood]

I ordered a Pacific Tool bolt head, called them about the firing pin hole. They told me that unless it says bench rest in the description, it is a standard (large) hole. I also read a thread that said PTG heads are all small. I guess I will find out. They said they actually turned down the firing pin to cure the problem. A drill and fine garnet paper. I will grind out the "bump". Can the firing pin hole be drilled out to size? I really appreciate all the info. And, NOR CAL, you are only as old as you feel. At least, I keep telling myself that....

It should not be a problem drilling the hole out. I would go undersized first (#52 or 53)and see how much larger the hole is then the drill. Even better would be to polish the pin down to fit the head closely.

Also only use a new sharp drill bit. If you don't there is a possibility to drill oversize or for the drill to walk. Take it slow and keep it cool and lubricated. WD-40 is not lubrication for drilling in steel.

[joeelvis]

Thanks much, Robin. I would probably take it to my 'smith, as the lugs would need to be lapped. When I got this rifle, it looked like it had never been cleaned, I have never seen a firearm so cruddified. I tried to get the bolt apart, wasn't happening. Took it to JW, he had a hard time with it. Said the bolt was as filthy as the rest of the rifle, with congealed grease/oil in it. Probably had never been cleaned since leaving the factory. I just don't understand some people. Spent 3 hours cleaning barrel and action, went to the range, the rifle showed it's appreciation with some good groups. Taking my nephew to the range today, teaching him how to shoot a ladder load. Lapua brass, Sierra 53 gr HP Match. Again, thanks for your time and info. Like your tag, so true!