Bolt sticking and weak extraction on a Mauser Sporter

M

Macallanontherocks

New member
I recently purchased what I presume to be a Mauser VZ-24 converted to .30-06. The rifle is decently accurate, but rarely ejects the shells after firing and tends to have a bolt that sticks. After firing, it often takes a considerable amount of force to open the bolt. Oddly enough, it only occurs with Remington Corelock's, the issue doesn't appear with Winchester white box or Federal Fusions. I don't know quite what to make of it and would appreciate any insight as to what is causing the problem.
 
Is it possible the Rem loads are too hot for the rifle?
Hard extraction is often a sign of too hot a load, or excessive headspace. Any signs of problems on the brass- flattened primers, gas blowby, etc.?
 
I have a wood-stocked Savage that was hard to unlock the bolt. I tired everything I could think of and finally took the rifle to my gunsmith. He called me about an hour later and told me to come pick up my rifle. The front mounting screw was one thread too long, binding the bolt head.

I've seen bolts that were bound by a scope-base screw that was one thread too long.

It might not be pressure causing your problem, it could be a simple mechanical fault. I'd start by loosening the action screws a couple of turns and see if the bolt moves more smoothly.
 
Check the ejector blade on the bolt stop. If the blade is cracked or too short you can get poor ejection. Also, if you want good ejection you need to cycle the bolt "vigorously" or you'll get weak ejection.

That lever on the back left side of the action is the bolt stop, one screw removes it, and you can see the ejector blade held in place.

Jimro
 
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