How to adjust the rigger pull weight on Winchester Model 70?

[ShootAndHunt]

The trigger pull on my Winchester Model 70 Classic Sporter LT rifle is kind of heavy, I want to adjust it to the lighter side, say, about 2.5 pounds? Could anyone tell me how to do it? The instruction mannual doesn't mention a word about it, but it said the trigger pull weight is adjustable!?

 

[lycanthrope]

Take the action out of the stock. The rear of the trigger has a screw (with a slot head) through it with 3 nuts. The one on the lower side is a lock nut so you NEED to loosen it.

You can turn the slot head of the screw to adjust over travel if need be. Turn it in too far and you won't trip the firing pin.

The nuts on the upper side of the trigger control the pressure of the spring which rides over the screw. One is used as a lock nut. You can lighten the pressure on the screw but it MUST have some pressure to hold the trigger on the sear assembly. In my experience you can get a 3lb job and be safe but not 2.5. Be sure to fucntion test by slamming the bolt shut (hard) with the safety off. If the firing pin drops then you need to up spring pressure.

If the pin drops and you cant get 2.5 pounds then you need to have the trigger/engagement worked on and that's a job for a smith. I've thoughtthat you may be able to cut a light spring such as a light 1911 mainspring and be able to go lower safely but that is untested. The stock spring tends to be a bit too short.

Modify at your own risk.

 

[ShootAndHunt]

Thanks, lycanthrope! I will give it a try, and hope I get some information about the gunsmith in my area if I cannot do it myself.

 

[Sodbuster]

you can get a 3lb job and be safe but not 2.5

Exactly what my gunsmith told me concerning my model 70. He adjusted the trigger to 3 pounds and it's sweet; no need for a Jewel.

 

[mtnbkr]

On mine, the trigger engagement was much too long. I shortened it and now I can get a safe trigger that is scary light and still passes the drop test. I got it so low it took barely any pressure to set it off, yet it still withstood multiple 10" drops. It never failed the test. I adjusted it to the 3lb or so range and left it there.

Chris