Robinhood, the cocking piece/collar retaining pin shaft diameter is .080 away from the ramp of the bolt body, I will try getting it closer...I actually did fire a couple primed empties the day before I went to the range and both went bang .....that's why I was surprised when I had so much trouble with the live rounds...and it is all brand new Norma brass...going to check the trigger also, it is set ultra light, want to make sure it is releasing cleanly....but I honestly appreciate all the help, brings up things I hadn't thought of...keep the suggestions coming, I'm learning as I go...rsbhunter