Bolt head #0

[sdh1911]

I realize the following question is 101 for you Lee Enfield guys, but, I gotta ask. Does anyone know what the measurements on the bolt heads for the #4 rifle should be? I just got one with a zero and always thought this to be the longest of the four but, just need to be sure, many thanks-SDH

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[stencollector]

0 is the shortest. As headspace increases beyond acceptable, you replace it with a higher number to bring the headspace back up to spec.
By the book they went to 3, but there were apparently larger than that available (and 00 too.)
Oddly enough, the Cno7s had 6 available heads.

[Claven2]

There was a No.4 size bolt head, but I've never seen one personally. I had a couple No.3 heads that went for $40+ on ebay each when I sold them - also an uncommon size

[sdh1911]

I'm kinda hope the #0 would be the longest in lenght, giving me more romm to play with, but, just don't remember the sequence. (I left some of my best brain cells in the 1970's)-SDH

[stencollector]

0 is the best. It means a fairly new/properly set up rifle.

My LB sniper is presently on a #2 bolt head. I have a few 3s squared away in case the day ever comes, and after that I guess I'll be either building one up, or else reworking a Cno7 head.
I only go through maybe 300-400 rounds a year, so it should be a while before I have to worry about such things.

[sdh1911]

Good to know, That gives me plenty of range time. I used my buddies bore scope and the barrel is like new, thee is no wear in the free bore zone. I hope I can get the best out of it once the work commences. Looks like the work should start in two weeks or so. I have some work to do for paying customers before I tend to my own stuff, many thanks-SDH

[Claven2]

Honestly, I've seen No.4's with tens of thousands of rounds through them still on a 0 bolt head and meeting headspace. If you ever stretch a receiver enough to go up a number, time to reduce your handloads!!!

[Badger]

Here's what the Armourer's Manual published, although I have found that with manufacturing tolerances of the time, your mileage may vary.

It will either be marked 0, 1, 2, or 3.

The difference is the different lengths of heads.

0 .620 to .625"
1 .625 to .630"
2 .630 to .635"
3 .635 to .640"

Hope this helps...

Regards,
Badger

[sdh1911]

Thanks Badger, that's the numbers I am looking for-SDH

[Ian]

I'll have to check, but I could swear my No4 (which has barely been fired) has a #3 bolt head. This rifle is an Irish Contract piece which is all matching, and still has 95% finish on it's mag follower, feed ramps and bolt. When I bought it I was told it had been used as a cadet drill rifle in the UK - it certainly looks like it has been drilled with, but not fired.