How do you Install an Extractor Collar?

[cquickel]

What's the secret to installing an extractor collar on a M1917 bolt without damaging it?

Information

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[Jim K]

There is a special tool, but a clamp or padded pliers can do the job. Just squeeze the collar in enough to allow the extractor to slip on. Those collars (on any Mauser type rifle) are hard to get back on as they are not springs and tend to get bent out of shape when removed and replaced. Even the tool will not get them right, but it will allow the extractor to slip on. Once it is on, you may have to take a small brass hammer and tap down any high spots on the collar so it rotates freely.

Jim