Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Single Shots No 1 bolt play.

The 375 I bought seems to have a lot of bolt play at the closed position more so than any of my others in the safe. Maybe more play than any of the ones I used to own.
Not sure if I should shoot it or contact Ruger?
Can I measure headspace accurately with the extractor in place? Will I need a full set of gages? I dont believe the rifle has been fired and not sure how Ruger will react to a dissambly if a repair is needed.

You might try chambering an empty case, then use a feeler gauge to get a better idea.

Bruce

Evenin, I'm no hexpert but try some celifane tape on the cartridge head, add more layers as needed and ya have sort of a base to work from??? GWPGUY. 🐾👣🇨🇦

Empty chamber or with factory cartridge chambered?

On a No. 1 there is no bolt....breech block.

Breech block on a empty chamber and with new unfired case.

If the breech block moves with a new case chambered...and the case appears to seat on the belt and flush with the breech...I would contact Ruger and ask them what their acceptable breech block to breech face tolerances are. I suspect you will be surprised.

I just checked a '90s 30-06 and a newer .308. Breech blocks on both of those wiggle when locked and cocked on an empty chamber. Don't wiggle when locked but not cocked....after opening and closing action, then pulling trigger on empty chamber. Both shoot well enough and no problems with fired cases new or reloaded.

I would shoot the .375 a couple of times and check the case heads and just ahead of the belt for case expansion beyond SAA.MI diameter specifications. I would be surprised if there is an issue.

Thanks
I have five No 1 at the moment. Some have play some dont.
I will call Ruger and ask
Thanks again

When I fit a new barrel to a Number One. I generally figure on about .005 clearance between the block and barrel. Most factory barrels will show from .010 to .015.
You probably can check headspace with the extractor in place. You only need a "GO" gauge and a set of feeler gauges. With the gauge in place, you should have no more than .003" clearance and less is better. The "GO" gauge will measure .220". Most brass will measure about .215". If you measure head clearance with a piece of new brass and the feeler gauges, you will likely see .006 or .007" inch of clearance, with .010 not out of the question. GD