Help with new impulse

[Essex]

Hi there, I have had my Big Game for about a week now after looking for one for about a year. I had the same problem you were describing and was starting to have buyer's remorse too. I have taken it to the range now twice and have learned some things that have fixed the problem, and I absolutely love this rifle now. First, when you are first putting the bolt in action, turn it just a hair clock wise as you are putting it in. This will keep it from binding up on the ejector (From the instruction manual). What others have described as the ball bearings not retracting fully and dragging in the action is totally valid, so you have to get it fully locked and unlocked when you cycle it. This bolt seems to like being cycled with some authority, I found if I was being too gingerly with it, it wouldn't fully unlock and then would drag. I've put about 60 rounds through it now, and it is very smooth. Hope that helps

[RCE1]

I'd have to agree about positioning the bolt handle one "click" forward of perpendicular, decisive bolt handling and lots of dry firing can yield noticeable improvement. Now, I had a conversation with the gentleman at Desh Ind., who does the bolt lift kits and firing pin bushings and he seemed quite eager to get an Impulse bolt to play with. I think that's what this rifle needs, some tinkerers who understand the basics bring their expertise to bear. Kind of exciting.

[shoots100]

Like anything new, the rifle needs to be broken in.
I've fired over 500 rounds in my 243 predator.
It was tight at first, but the bolt was very slick after a couple dozen rounds, lubing in the right spots and some bolt manipulation.
The bolt does run smoother while being used in the right hand configuration, as the bolt release is on the left side and there's not a lot of pressure being applied to it while pulling it back.
That's why it's key to apply some thicker lube to the bolt release channel, as the majority of the bolt is riding on the bolt release after the bolt head bearing's clear the barrel extension.
There's no support on the right ejection side of the receiver.
I don't see how any type of bearing will help stop the issue, unless their put into the bolt release lever for the top of bolt channel to ride on.
Just use and lube it and it'll get better.

SJC

[shoots100]

I'd have to agree about positioning the bolt handle one "click" forward of perpendicular, decisive bolt handling and lots of dry firing can yield noticeable improvement. Now, I had a conversation with the gentleman at Desh Ind., who does the bolt lift kits and firing pin bushings and he seemed quite eager to get an Impulse bolt to play with. I think that's what this rifle needs, some tinkerers who understand the basics bring their expertise to bear. Kind of exciting.

RCE1Tried to message you back, your inbox content is full.
To the OP, Have you had any improvements with the bolt operation since lubing ?

[Robinhood]

Is this something toothpaste might help smooth up? I am interested in this design but have no experience. Reading you all's content intently.