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06-25-2011 12:44 AM
# ADS
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I would say safe to shoot but if you know someone with some headspace gauges, it wouldn't hurt to check. Many bolts get mismatched during the course of a rifle's life, but that doesn't mean it is always safe. If you can't check headspace, either purchase or load some super light 8mm rounds (or w/e caliber that one is in) and shoot it. You will likely get a little blow-back if it is super light as the pressure won't be enough to expand the case to create a gas lock, but you can then remove the case and check the primer strike. If the primer hasn't tried to back out or the case neck chewed up or engaged rifling, you SHOULD be ok. Remember it is always better to be safe than sorry, but you should be alright. Look at the bolt and the rest of the rifle; a good indication will be if the metal finish is about the same on both. It is not definitive but if one looks worn out or brand new and a total opposite of the other, the replacement may have been done recently as opposed to ages ago by a field armourer or something. So, a couple of things to consider. Either way, if you collect these rifles a lot, it is probably not a bad idea to invest in some headspace gauges; they can be a little pricey but you will know for sure about your rifle(s). Best of luck!
By the way, that is a very pretty rifle; $300 isn't that bad for one in nice shape; I would probably go for it if I was looking for another VZ24 right now.
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