vertical in a Rem 742

[RobertTX]

I have a 742 in .308 that will do the same thing. I also found the gas port dirty, cleaning that helped quite a bit. The barrel is VERY temp sensitive. I sighted it so first shot is dead center and remind myself that it is a hunting gun.
My research indicated that the 30.06 will damage itself, especially if shot a lot with bullets over 180 grains. The other calibers are not so tough on the receiver rails, which are reported to be the problem area.

 

[rg1]

My 1970's Remington 742 Woodmaster doesn't show vertical stringing. Like mentioned slow burning powders and heavy loads will over time damage the action of a 742. Too slow powders cause the bolt to retract with so much force that the bolt lug will overtravel and damage the "rails" or bolt guides at the end of the bolt travel. I would highly recommend no powder slower than IMR 4064 and not use slower powders such as IMR 4350 and IMR 4831 for example. I shot using IMR 4350 and my rifle shows some damage. There is no way to repair damage. Remington won't and no gunsmiths will even touch one for repair. Good woods hunting rifle only. Wouldn't use it for plinking and rapid fire. Accuracy can be very good but some loads and rifles show only 2-3 inch groups at 100yds. Mine does 1 1/2" at 100 with my loads. The 1st shot from a cold rifle is the important shot. I'd shoot one round and see if the rifle will repeat with a clean bore on next trips to the range. I'd try this a few times to see how it shoots with a clean cold bore with one or two shots, zero the scope and set it aside for hunting season. It'll last a lot longer than a play plinking rifle.

 

[Old Navy]

jp, next time out try loading single shot without the mag in place. Let the bolt slam on each round. Then come back and tell us how it did. Later! Frank

PS: Had two of them.

 

[jp]

Frank, I will try that. Thx