Advantages and Disadvantages of Bolt Locking up in the Barrel

[South Pender]

A number of more recent bolt-action rifles are set up with the bolt locking up into lug recesses in the barrel, rather than in the receiver as is commonly the case. Most are switch-barrel rifles, although a few, like the newer Anschutz centerfire rifles, are not.

The reason is obvious with the switch-barrel rifles like my Schultz & Larsen Victory model. However, I’m curious—with respect to accuracy—whether there is an advantage to this lock-up system or whether it constitutes a disadvantage. One possible advantage might be that the bolt will be more in line with the barrel than might otherwise be the case, but I’m not sure about that.

What do you guys think?

 

[butchlambert]

A number of more recent bolt-action rifles are set up with the bolt locking up into lug recesses in the barrel, rather than in the receiver as is commonly the case. Most are switch-barrel rifles, although a few, like the newer Anschutz centerfire rifles, are not.

The reason is obvious with the switch-barrel rifles like my Schultz & Larsen Victory model. However, I’m curious—with respect to accuracy—whether there is an advantage to this lock-up system or whether it constitutes a disadvantage. One possible advantage might be that the bolt will be more in line with the barrel than might otherwise be the case, but I’m not sure about that.

What do you guys think?

I don't see how it could be aligned any better. The expense would also be a problem. Did you not post this last year also?

 

[South Pender]

I don't see how it could be aligned any better. The expense would also be a problem. Did you not post this last year also?

Yes, sorry about that. I didn't get any response specifically with respect to accuracy, and so have tried again here.

 

[Jon Leary]

If it was advantageous some gunsmith would be pushing it.

 

[mike mccormick]

I would say if it were an accuracy improvement, the benchrest community would be using nothing else.