303 British P14

Daniesteyn · May 21, 2019

Hi to all 303 gurus
I need some advice please. Today i stripped my lock to clean properly and reassembled it. I thought let me check the headspace. As i do not have go no go gauges i inserted the lock with thin solderingwire sticked to the front of the lock an inserted an empty case in the chamber. I inserted the lock but it did not want to close so i forced it a bit. I took it out and to my schock the solderingwire was flat flat. So does this mean i do not have any headspace. How do fix it and can i still shoot with the gun. I am waiting for replies

Blue68f100 · May 21, 2019

Did you measure it before and after? The solder though flat does have thickness. If you have a case gauge it would give you an indication of the change.

If you have some fired brass you could get a indicator on the head space. But you do need something to compare it to.

Ken T · May 21, 2019

I doubt if you have a headspace problem.Headspace is best checked with gauges.P14 and M1917 Enfields are best checked when removed from the stock.These rifles have a lot of camming power when closing the bolt.If the bottom side of the bolt handle doesn't touch the receiver with a no go gauge headspace is good.A very light touch is required when checking headspace on these rifles.It is unlikely that you have shallow headspace since you were able to close the bolt on a cartridge case and a piece of solder.

NIGHTLORD40K · May 21, 2019

Try this?

Cheap and available at any auto parts store. Comes in different measurement ranges with the guage on the wrapper.

Daniesteyn · May 21, 2019

Blue68f100 said:
Did you measure it before and after? The solder though flat does have thickness. If you have a case gauge it would give you an indication of the change.

If you have some fired brass you could get a indicator on the head space. But you do need something to compare it to.

Daniesteyn · May 21, 2019

Hi Blue it measured 0.023" I think it is less than spes by SAAMI

Jessesky · May 21, 2019

A 303 with a tight headspace is an oxymoron. I doubt it’s a headspace issue unless someone set the barrel back. My 3 different Enfields all have a pretty generous headspace. And two of the three are in very good condition, not a high round count.

ArchAngelCD · May 22, 2019

It sounds like this is not a new to you gun and you didn't have a problem with it other than checking the headspace incorrectly. If I'm wrong, sorry, if I'm right buy the proper tools or just stop worrying. Enjoy your gun.

303 British P14

Daniesteyn

Member

Blue68f100

Member

Ken T

Member

NIGHTLORD40K

Member

Daniesteyn

Member

Daniesteyn

Member

Jessesky

Member

ArchAngelCD

Member.

Similar threads