Mauser M71/84 ?

Hi

My 71/84 cartridge lifter doesn't lift! I assume there is a reason why but I cannot spot it. If someone could please tell me why I assume something is missing or has been removed?

First the simple stuff. Make sure the spring rod is not protruding into the lifter. This can happen if its worn. If this is the case it should work fine with actual ammo. Second, make sure the selector is for operation of the lift. These break easily also and could be the reason. If neither of the first two is the issue, try slamming the bolt back hard. Check the bolt for wear marks also. If worn, it doesn't push the mechanism enough to cause it to lift. Sometimes putting down pressure on the bolt while pulling it back offsets the wear and allows the lifter to lift.

Hi

Thanks for the advice but it's still not lifting, I think as you say could just be general wear. Everything seems to be there as far as I can tell? It just doesn't want to lift

Check to see if the bolt has a wear line on the underside. I have a Kropatchek rifle that is pretty close to the same action that has a distinct wear groove on the bolt. That is how I figured out what was going on with mine. My 71/84 works fine although it did have the issue with the protruding spring loader which I was able to fix.