700 bolt lift question

[stretch257]

I have a Remington 700 I purchased that has been been cleaned up by Gordy my problem is when I open the bolt it stops at near the top of its lift and needs alot of force to pop past the resistance. It's enough force to rock the rifle out of the rest. Is this timing or a cocking issue. What can be done to help. It is well cleaned and lubed yes hand loads but not near max it is currently running a 22-250 barrel.

 

[brian427cobra]

Timing issue, DAN40x I think can fix it for a reasonable fee

 

[Alex Wheeler]

Does it do this on an empty chamber? If not it is most likely a die issue.

 

[dkhunt14]

I agree with zfast. Does it do it on an empty chamber or just with a fired case. Matt

 

[JDMock]

Does it have bases on the action? If so, check to make sure the screws are not hitting the locking lug as the bolt is rotated. Good shooting...James

 

[Chief 101]

I think Randy and James got it nailed...

 

[dkhunt14]

I think Randy and James got it nailed...

I don't think it is the screw because Remington raceway when the bolt is open is at 3 and 9 o'clock. The poster said it opens hard in the last little bit. That would be clear of the screws. He needs to answer the question does it do it empty or with a fired case.

 

[ARshuter]

I think Randy and James got it nailed...

I don't think it is the screw because Remington raceway when the bolt is open is at 3 and 9 o'clock. The poster said it opens hard in the last little bit. That would be clear of the screws. He needs to answer the question does it do it empty or with a fired case.

Also if it was a screw it wouldn't close.

 

[LHSmith]

What JDMock said....BTDT. If the resistance is accompanied with a click, then the cartridge base (just ahead of web) is too tight in chamber.

 

[stretch257]

Checked the screws they are Ok. There is ware on the bolt handle on where the two match in the last part of the bolt throw. It is not every time it is inconsistent. Maybe I should try a full length die? I have only neck sized for several years.

 

[dkhunt14]

You need to full length size everytime. I like to bump the shoulder 2 thousandths . Matt

 

[gunsandgunsmithing]

Checked the screws they are Ok. There is ware on the bolt handle on where the two match in the last part of the bolt throw. It is not every time it is inconsistent. Maybe I should try a full length die? I have only neck sized for several years.

The problem is likely two fold....both the timing and sizing. With proper primary extraction timing, the bolt click you get from tight brass is minimized or eliminated. That said, the brass shouldn't be tight in the first place. As brass work hardens, it gets tight in the chamber. Proper sizing eliminates the tight brass.


If you take a look at the area that you say shows wear, you'll notice that it is a camming surface that is intended to mate with a cam surface on the receiver. With full or near full engagement of those surfaces, extraction begins sooner and the distinct click goes away. This is primary extraction timing. If you only have engagement of the two camming surfaces at the very top of the bolt lift, click will happen. Those cams are what "leverages" the case from the chamber. Being tapered, once the case breaks free, it's no longer tight.


I'd do as others have recommended. Let Dan Armstrong time the handle and start full length sizing. If the brass is old, and it sounds like it might be, you will likely have to start over with brass pretty soon. Full length sizing will make the problem go away for a short time, but it will re-appear with old brass.--Mike Ezell

 

[Chief 101]

What JDMock said....BTDT. If the resistance is accompanied with a click, then the cartridge base (just ahead of web) is too tight in chamber.

I have seen the bolt locked so I have agreee with your hypothesis...always difficult diagnosing problems without gun in hand...should have been taken to competent gunsmith first...

 

[jnyfeler]

Good move asking the question here first. It could have saved you the time and expense of delivering the rifle to a gunsmith.

Jeff