Good question.....not sure why not... all I did was try an empty shell and the bolt would not close.... so I assumed... (I know, Bad) This rifle was a hand-me-down and has been sitting in someones closet for 30 plus years... prior to that it was used as a deer rifle...so I doubt the bolt was changed, at that time it was worthless... so maybe it is just dirty or something is growing in there.... who knows, until I take it apart and really get a good look.... I ordered a set of go-no-go gauges and maybe that will give me some answers... as it is now...the bolt closes fine but not with a shell in there... In the past I used Bondo to make a chamber image to identify the chamber in a Spencer ....so that would work to give me exact measurements... a bit of Pam in the chamber and a wad of Bondo is quick and easy...really works..... I love Bondo... also makes really nice receiver blocks when removing a barrel..

---------- Post added at 08:12 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:08 AM ----------

The deal I made on this rifle was interesting.....he wants a deer rifle in trade...my choice what.... I am looking now for a nearly new Remington 750 with the wood stock in .308 to trade... something in the $500 range... I want to give him something to be proud of .... even though he did not know the value of his rifle, I do and want to be fair...