No. 4 mark 1 bolt heads

[ChuckS]

I just bought a couple of bolt heads from Sarco and after installing each found that they do not fit in the receiver. They appear to resemble the correct ones but they will not go past the site base. Anybody know what model these might be for?

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[Peter Laidler]

Sounds like you haven't a) lifted the backsight or b) depressed the CATCH, head, breech bolt down against its spring.

Be advised that there is a LOT more to fitting a bolt head than just screwing another one on! To do it properly, there are about 6 or 7 interrelated operatins/functions to see to.

[Beerhunter]

I would also ask why you have the spare bolt-heads Chuck. They tend not to wear out in my experience. Or are you trying to "fix" your head-space?

[ChuckS]

Thank you very much for your replies!!! I was not turning the bolt head down and depressing the catch. I am not new to old military rifles, just new to Lee Enfields. My only other Lee Enfield is a Savage with "US Property" stamped on it and as you know the receivers are quite different. Also, I bought 2 bolt heads because the rifle was a gift and had no bolt head on it and I got them cheap. The person who gave it to me said it had been used in a department store display many years ago when he worked there and I assume that the original bolt head had been removed to render it totally safe for that purpose. The rear site was broken and the magazine missing, but I replace both. The stock was in bad shape and looked like someone had taken a ball peen hammer to it. There wasn't a square inch without a dent or scrape. I am usually not a fan of refinishing old military stocks but this one was the absolute worst I have ever seen so I refinished it. When I refinished it I planned to keep it as a wall hanger but changed my mind later. Now, to take it to a smith and have the head space checked and have the barrel inspected for cracks, etc. Thanks again for your help!