Parker Hale M85

[Rwsgunsmithing]

Wasn't sure where to ask this question so I figured here was the best option.

I would like to see a picture of the feed rails and feed ramp on the M85 actions. Want to see how they get the m14 mags to feed.

Information

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[Gil Boyd]

Richard,
I'll have a dig around and report back soon

[Rwsgunsmithing]

Thanks Gil.

Robert

[Bruce_in_Oz]

I haven't had my sticky paws on an M-85 since the late 1990s; all I have is the memories and a copy of the factory manual.They appear to have been built on a "special" body that is reminiscent of a "solid-bottomed" P-H 1200 "single-shot" target rifle.

If you look at the metalwork out of the stock, it is a fair bit beefier along the side rails than your basic Mauser 98. Thus, it was not a huge challenge to machine out a "well" suitable for the M-14 magazine, (or get the Spanish investment-casting shop to do a special run).

Note also that the mag spring MAY have been "adjusted" from the standard "lift force" of the parent system. Mauser-style bolts go back and forth a LOT slower than M-14 jobs do.

Thus, you do NOT need the rather heavy "standard" spring, which. in any case, massively increases the drag forces pushing upwards against the bolt. Give any standard Mauser or Lee Enfield mag follower a prod downwards, and then try an M-14 specimen. You will get the drift.

[Rwsgunsmithing]

I haven't had my sticky paws on an M-85 since the late 1990s; all I have is the memories and a copy of the factory manual.They appear to have been built on a "special" body that is reminiscent of a "solid-bottomed" P-H 1200 "single-shot" target rifle.

If you look at the metalwork out of the stock, it is a fair bit beefier along the side rails than your basic Mauser 98. Thus, it was not a huge challenge to machine out a "well" suitable for the M-14 magazine, (or get the Spanish investment-casting shop to do a special run).

Note also that the mag spring MAY have been "adjusted" from the standard "lift force" of the parent system. Mauser-style bolts go back and forth a LOT slower than M-14 jobs do.

Thus, you do NOT need the rather heavy "standard" spring, which. in any case, massively increases the drag forces pushing upwards against the bolt. Give any standard Mauser or Lee Enfield mag follower a prod downwards, and then try an M-14 specimen. You will get the drift.

Thanks Bruce, Never even considered the spring pressure.

[Gil Boyd]

Robert,
Sadly no blue prints or flagged up issues of a possible feed problem as they are supposed to be interchangeable, but the feed rails and feed ramps are almost the same as the Mauser 98. Only issue could be as already stated would be to look at the spring comparisons on opposing mags out of their casings, could be someone has swapped them over time.

[Gil Boyd]

Robert,
Meant to ask you, are you using the 10 round mag in your queries?

Also rumours abound about Sabre Defence Industries who are "supposed" to have the tooling for the M85, purchased from Gibbs Rifle Co and supposed to be doing something with them in the future!!! Don't hold your breath!!

[Rwsgunsmithing]

Yes a 10 rounder is what I plan on using. Anything bigger would just get in the way, in those awkward shooting positions you sometimes encounter.

Saber Defense even still in business?

[Lee Enfield]

Robert,
Meant to ask you, are you using the 10 round mag in your queries?

Also rumours abound about Sabre Defence Industries who are "supposed" to have the tooling for the M85, purchased from Gibbs Rifle Co and supposed to be doing something with them in the future!!! Don't hold your breath!!

I doubt the tooling matters, the casting dies and perhaps some fixtures would be useful however...

[Rwsgunsmithing]

Even a picture through the mag well and ejection port would be helpful.