Loose charger bridge on a No.4 Mk1*

[Kiwi]

Recently purchased a nice Savage No.4 Mk1* to restore and noticed that the charger bridge is 'loose' (i.e able to be put back in place with the aid of a nylon hammer). I have seen where these have been welded up before and was wondering if it is necessary from a structural/strength aspect for the receiver or if it sits tight and remains in place is it something that can be left alone given the relatively limited use the rifle will receive?

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[jmoore]

If you start shearing the little retaining pin that holds the rear sight axis pin in place then I'd get it sorted straight away. Otherwise, the big drama is that it might get lost.

[Peter Laidler]

They were regularly loose and must be repaired. Hold it in place with a G cramp top to bottom. Drill a small hole down between the horizontal joint line, midway along. Countersink and then fill with weld. Clean off the weld, make good. Send through remainder of workshop system for full overhaul! That'll fix it for good. Done zillions of them!