Lee Enfield No4 Mk1 - question

[seqhunter]

I just bought a Lee Enfield No4 Mk1 rifle and noticed that the bolt takes very little upward pressure to disengage. For example, when the action is cycled and bolt closed, simply by pushing up with my right thumb, I can cause the bolt to disengage and the spring pushes the action back. I don't have much experience with this gun, but is this typical for these rifles, or does this suggest that it may not be safe to shoot. The overall condition of the rifle is good, bore is in excellent condition, wood is good, still blueing on the metal parts.
Thanks

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[RifleDude]

That sounds pretty normal to me. It's the cocked firing pin spring that exerts pressure against the sear that causes this when you release the bolt without pulling the trigger first.

[Badger]

I don't have much experience with this gun, but is this typical for these rifles, or does this suggest that it may not be safe to shoot.

Welcome to the site .....

As RifleDude says, it's normal and if the head spacing is correct, you will have no problems. Shoot it and enjoy the experience ...

If you want to learn more about "headspace", Parashooter published a good article in the Technical Articles for Milsurp Collectors and Re-loaders(click here)

Headspace 101 for .303's (click here)

Regards,
Badger

[seqhunter]

I realize that the gun cocks with the forward motion of the bolt, thus making the upward pressure needed to disengage the bolt before firing very light, however, I had cycled the actions of several Enfields and this one was particularly "loose". I did take it to my gunsmith who helped check the head spacing, felt that it was a bit generous and helped adjust the sizing at the cost of a few bucks. The article on .303 head spacing was very useful, and reassuring. Thanks!