M1A Bolt Lock

[DHH]

I picked up a like-new M1A last week at a show and have since
found a little problem. The bolt lock won't keep the bolt back
unless there is a magazine in place.

Talked to Springfield and they said that's wrong; ship it to them
and they will fix it. Plan to do this, but was thinking that if the
bolt lock spring was too strong that might cause the problem.

Would like to hear the opinons from folks with more M14/M1A
time than I have. (which is, if you've shot one you have more time.)

Thanks,
DHH

 

[Hutch]

No offense, but it sounds like you might have an operator problem. Have you tried pulling the op-rod handle (bolt handle) all the way back and then manually engaging the bolt stop (on the left side of the receiver)? The tension of the bolt against the bolt stop should hold the bolt stop in place, and the bolt should remain back. Again, sorry if this seems a bit childish...

 

[DHH]

Hutch
No offense taken. Should have included in the post
that I did that and that the bolt does not stay locked
when an empty magazine is removed.

Thanks
DHH

 

[30Cal]

You might try with a couple different mags to make sure it's not a problem w/ your mag follower. The spring probably isn't the cause--either the bolt stop has a problem or the bolt itself. Either way, I'd do a check with as many mags as you can get your hands on, then call SA Inc, get an RMA# and send it back. Replacing the bolt stop is kind of a pain.

Ty