NO 1 MK 3 chipped bolt body/bolt swap.

Hello everyone,

I'm new to the forums and the proud owner of a couple of NO 1 MKIII* rifles. I acquired one from a previous owner who managed to chip a small (nail clipping sized and shaped) piece out of the back of the bolt body while trying to disassemble the bolt. The bolt body doesn't appear to have cracked beyond this small chip, but I'm a bit reluctant to fire the thing as-is.

I have purchased a complete spare bolt and I'm thinking of swapping it out. I have a complete set of headspace (go, no-go, field) gauges and a few bolt heads as well. Assuming I have a bolt head that puts the headspace within specified dimensions, I think I'll at least have a safe weapon. I have heard timing mentioned on this forum as well, but honestly don't understand timing from a safety standpoint on bolt rifles, my only previous experience with timing having been on the M2HB machine gun.

Any advice on this issue appreciated. I would like repair the bolt body to keep numbers matched, but honestly can't see a way to repair such seemingly minor damage. Is there a way to check for cracking in the bolt body beyond a thorough visual inspection?

A picture of the damage would help. But I am sure there'll be someone on this forum in your neck 0of the woods that would NDT crack test your bolt body for your peace of mind.

Do that first then think about changing the bolt is my opinion