I have recently obtained a lee from 1943 (sniper). I don't know to0 much as I am just entering the gun collecting world. I had the rifle checked and took it to the range, once i loaded the .303 British everything seemed fine as I closed the bolt it stuck. I could see the bolt close and move closer to the bullet but it would just stop and I could not close it. The bold is not getting stuck on the lip of the right side but something seems to be impeding it from fully closing. Sorry if my terminology is incorrect as I said I'm new an appreciate any help.
Thanks
Is the bolt matching serial number to the rifle? What kind of ammo are you using?
Check and make sure the bolt head is screwed in fully. Overturn from the right hand locking lug, (the long one), should not exceed 1/8" when tight. If the problem persists it should be checked with gauges and inspected to be sure the bolt is assembled correctly. It should close on a .064 GO gauge.
A few questions that we need to know the answers to; so we can help.
1: Does the serial number on the bolt match the rifle?
2: Does the bolt close easily on an empty chamber?
3: Is the ammunition factory made or somebody's reloads?
4: Have you checked the the barrel and chamber are clear?
Some photos may help; of bolt position and safety position etc when the issue occurs.
A few questions that we need to know the answers to; so we can help.
1: Does the serial number on the bolt match the rifle?
2: Does the bolt close easily on an empty chamber?
3: Is the ammunition factory made or somebody's reloads?
4: Have you checked the the barrel and chamber are clear?
Some photos may help; of bolt position and safety position etc when the issue occurs.
YES, THE ABOVE.
I would add... Does the bolt close on an empty chamber and then try a military spec dummy .303 cartridge and see if it closes on that? It is possible a broken off cartridge case or partial case is lodged in the chamber area? Did you inspect the chamber? Please read about bolt assembly if this is your first Enfield. On an expensive jewel like that I would check its headspace prior to shooting. Heck, an intact original sniper would be a safe queen in my world... but I never had that kind of cash or luck. Lots of videos... OR
If you have cash for an original Sniper, then spend a little more and have a qualified Enfield gunsmith check it out and headspace the rifle. You do not want to damage such a jewel- Cheep insurance .
everything seemed fine as I closed the bolt it stuck. I could see the bolt close and move closer to the bullet but it would just stop and I could not close it. The bold is not getting stuck on the lip of the right side but something seems to be impeding it from fully closing. Sorry if my terminology is incorrect as I said I'm new an appreciate any help.
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