[Ken Rawcliffe]

I have a model 54 in 270...I mounted a scope on it several years ago......I had to use some very high bases to keep the bolt from hitting the scope as i cycled the action.My question is,can the bolt be bent to accomodate a
scope with a lower set of bases?and who can do this for me?The rifle im sure has some value and i dont really want to ruin the value, however I do want top hunt with such a great gun with a great action.Is there anyone here that has done this kind of work on a Winchester 54 .:)Thanks for your help

[Zeke/PA]

A bolt can be heated,bent and re-shaped by a good gunsmith.
Also , the bolt can be cut off and another welded on in it's place.
The stock, in the bolt handle area will also require some inletting to accomidate the new bolt handle.
It may not be easy to find someone able to tackle this work.
Good Luck!!

[gun nut]

Yes it can be done! The easiest way is to remove some metal in a 'V' form from the underside of the handle such that it can be bent down without heating and then have it welded back up. If it is TIG'd it minimises any risk of softening the bolt body which can be a problem with re-forging the handle. It is also qiucker and less expensive than attaching a new handle. I would recommend taking it to someone with experience of modifying bolt handles as they will have the necessary knowledge and tools / heatsinks to do the job properly!

[rcmodel]

If you want it to clear a low mounted scope, cutting a V and bending it down will not get-R-done.
You still won't have enough scope clearance.
Because a Model 54 bolt is already bent down like that.

Model 54 Bolt:
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/community/gun_inventory/images/post_falls/win_rifle/661709_win54_pf_01m.jpg

What you have to do is have it cut off and a new Model 70 style bolt handle welded back on.

Or forged like a Model 70 bolt handle shape.

Model 70 bolt:
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/community/gun_inventory/images/scarborough/win_rifle/1606580_70300hh_01m.jpg

The Model 54 wing safety will also have to be changed to a low-swing type to work with a low mounted scope.

Actually however, the Model 54 is worth way more money if left unmolested.

rc

[Zeke/PA]

I heartily agree.
Don't alter the origional Model 54 in any way!

[dirtyjim]

my 54 has had the bolt handle reshaped to the 70 style & has a buehler safety.
it was done by the previous owner who bought it new in 1928.
when i bought it it had a weaver k2.5 in low weaver rings & weaver bases.
i swaped the weavers out for a redfield 1pc base & low semi-split rings.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v36/dirtyjim/win54rightside.jpg
a few months back i swaped the redfield mount & rings for a set of Q/R montana mounts.

i'm kinda looking for a winchester 54 with a shot out barrel for a 22 hornet project. i have an original 22 hornet barrel & all the magazine parts for one.