1903 Cocking Problem - Hi, Newbie Here With Odd Problem.

Bob,
I won't even speculate as to why the parts are rubbing as you describe, and possibly they could be fixed......but I have to go with Chuck on this.....New bolt. The new bolt will PROBABLY head space fine, but it should be checked. Bolts were not intended or expected to be completely interchangeable. Too many tolerances that stack up. Bolts are relatively cheap. An entirely new complete bolt can be had for 75. Your bigger challenge might be the scope clearance. Good chance the standard USGI handle will hit your scope, hence the reason for the modifications to yours. You can find modified bolts fairly easily....just look for one that was done well. i've included a reference link as an example only. Your g-smith might have some under his bench in a shoe box too.

WW2 WW1 Springfield 1903 03A3 Gun Bolt Bent for a Scope & Swept Gun Part Parts | eBay

you wont gain anything with Gunparts made bolt, youll be in the same boat, you get what you pay for. you need to replace the complete assembly. cocking assembly and all, someone has damaged that one beyond safe repair and use.

I had all the intentions of bringing the gun back home today but relented. I'm giving the gunsmith one more shot at this. He "promised" an answer by Saturday. If it doesn't have one, I'll bring the gun back home, disassemble the bolt and take all the photos that I should have done in the first place. This problem is extremely difficult to explain without the photos. I totally agree with you regarding the use of a heat sink when welding. The "smith" probably didn't use one. I think he was more of a wood guy. The birds eye maple stock sure is "purrdy".

You mentioned a "good bolt assembly". Who makes one for this rifle? I can't find anything in Brownells other than those for Mauser and Numrich is the only one I found so far for 1903 Springfields. If here's another manufacturer and not just a distributor, please point me in the right direction. What do you think about head space issues using another aftermarket bolt?

Just as an aside, I need to get this gun working correctly so I can go on just one more big pig hunt before I hang it up. I'm gonna be an old geezer next year...70... and I feel the need to go out one more time. Just ordered a Ruger Redhawk 44mag as a new sidearm and if I can't get this
'06 to work right, I'm going to have to get another big bore rifle. My old "undergunned" Marlin 30-30 was OK for the 210 pounder I nailed on the run with one shot at 30-40 yards 25 years ago, (being High-Gun on my trap team with my old Reminton Model 58 helped) but it ain't gonna cut it with those big 400+ lb hogs running around these days.

I believe chuckindenver makes the bolts.


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Well, if we're talking about Chuck...why not just send him the gun and let him sort it out? That is once the other gunsmith falls on his face. Chuck loves a clean-up job...