Savage Bolt Puzzle

[BugOnPoint]

I have a Savage 110 Elite Precision. I'm beginning the process of working up some loads. One of my first steps is to determine the head space so that I can consistently bump the shoulder to the same length. To do so I need to remove the ejectors from the bolt so that they don't influence bolt close pressure. I'm stumped as to how to remove the ejector retaining pin. It appears to be peened off on one end and will not budge when tapped with a punch and hammer. Has anybody encountered this? Solutions? I'm ready to head to the local gunsmith.

 

[Pyscodog]

Was this a new rifle of did you buy it used? That pin looks really jacked up. I haven't messed with Savages in some time but looks like someone got pretty rough with a hammer and punch. Most pins usually drive out pretty easy.

 

[MClark]

If an ejector retaining pin gave us trouble we would put bolt (or just the head) in the mill with the punch or a dowel pin in chuck and press it out. Keeps everything lined up.

 

[DGP4]

You may have to push the ejector in to remove the pin. Looks like someone really mangled that pin!

 

[Sniperhandle]

Number one, Use a starter punch, Not a straight punch. Then try hitting it from the un-peened side.

The starter punch should get it moving and then use a straight punch.

 

[DShortt]

Number one, Use a starter punch, Not a straight punch. Then try hitting it from the un-peened side.

The starter punch should get it moving and then use a straight punch.

Given the condition of pin, someone beat he'll out of that thing. It won't come out easily no matter how you approach it.
Unless you're skilled with hand tools and prepared to deal with some unseen carnage, I'd consider taking it to a good 'smith. A new bolt head, ejector pins, springs and retaining pin may be needed no matter who performs the disassembly.
No way to know until the lid comes off the worm can.

 

[Pyscodog]

I have a small drill bit that I ground the pointy end off. Its much stronger than a punch and you can get pretty rough with it. It has worked several times for me in the past. Worse case if you can't get it out, a replacement isn't to expensive.

 

[DShortt]

I have a small drill bit that I ground the pointy end off. Its much stronger than a punch and you can get pretty rough with it. It has worked several times for me in the past. Worse case if you can't get it out, a replacement isn't to expensive.

I personally don't like that approach. Struck with much force, a drill bit will simply break.
A good punch set is a 'compromise' between soft and brittle. But nothing is beyond destruction.

 

[Pyscodog]

I know it wasn't a good idea but at the time it worked.