308 to 223

[Northman]

Im wondering.. I have an Rem 700 in 308 that I cant get rid of. Im thinking about converting it into a 223 single shot. Should I expect any difficulties with this?

If so, is there an easy way to fix this?

 

[vegeta]

I would think the major problem would be the boltface size.

I have not heard of any method where you can get a 308 sized bolt face to extract a 223 size case. Maybe some type of Sako like extractor but I don't know.

It also sounds like it might not be safe to have the case head unsupported but more knowledgable people should be able to comment on this.

I think you will have to get a new bolt with a 223 bolt face. Other than that, I don't see any reason it could not be done. Of course a new barrel too.

Bobby

 

[Northman]

How much would a new bolt cost?

 

[vegeta]

I am not sure how much a new bolt would cost. I think Remington will not sell just a bolt.

I think PTG makes a replacement bolt but this does not have a handle and will require additional work.

It might be less expensive overall to just get a new rifle.

Bobby

 

[cntryboy1289]

Northman, how much are you asking for the rifle you have now? I may be able to find a buyer for it.

 

[oldjad01]

How about a new 6mmBR bbl? That eliminates the bolt face problem and gives you an very accurate long range 22. I have a 700Remy switch bbl gun set up that way. The cheapest way may be to reduce the price and move it. There is always a market for Remmy S/A. The $400-500 you save on a premium bbl goes a long way toward buying something that you really want especially when you addd it to a whatever you can get for the gun. Most gunsmiths are charging in excess of $300 for a clean, used action. JimDee