I've done some searches concerning the headspace data on the 1917 and seem to always come up with threads that veer off into the 303 arena so I'll hope to not aggravate folks with my questions...I'm familiar with the 1917 and the probability that the modern SAAMI headspace gauges are "commercial" and not as large as the military gauges.

Here is my dilemma. I was recently given a Winchester model of 1917 in very nice condition. I have a set of Forster gauges for 30-06 and set out to check the headspace...I fully stripped the bolt/extractor..."hyper cleaned" the chamber, bolt lugs, etc and was not surprised when it ate the NOGO gauge...I then took the field gauge and very gently checked it...the bolt would not close (moved to about 2/3 closed and stopped...didn't "push it"...

Now for my question...I was looking at Hatcher's note book and several other postings I've found on the 1917 headspace and they seem to make reference to the Field headspace length of 1.9xxx inches...my Forster NO go is 2.0547 and the Field is 2.0577. Neither seems to be in that "under 2 inch" range...is there something I'm missing? Is Forester using a different datum point on the shoulder or am I losing it?

I would assume (bad word) that with the rifle not closing on the Field I'm probably fine to go...I do handload and I do neck size after the first firing and I load medium loads in anything I load..nothing hot. I got a box of Federal American Eagle fired brass (once fired from this rifle) and it shows no signs of any issues at all..

I'm probably being overly fussy but the different lengths I see quoted for the gauges vs what my gauges show is confusing to me...old and easily confused.

Sure appreciate any comments on the 30-06 gauges..
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