Pre-64 Model 70: Ejection Problem

[frontlander]

Howdy,

I've just started working with a Pre-64 Model 70 in .30-06 that I've had for years. The gun shoots great, right at an inch at 100 yards with most factory loads. My trouble is with the ejection of spent cases. Normally I operate a bolt action vigorously using my palm to slam the bolt open and then cup the bolt with my palm to bring it to the rear. When I do this with this rifle the ejector does not ride up into the slot cut into the bolt thus the fired case does not eject. It seems as if the ejector slot needs to be opened up a few thousandths on one side to allow the ejector to do its job. The bolt itself has enough play in the receiver to allow it to go off to the side just a bit which seems to be causing the binding. When I use my thumb and index finger to grasp the bolt and pull straight back there is no problem. I know someone will say to just change my technique but I've been using the palm method for years and I don't think I will be able to change.

Should I open up the ejector slot or is there some other fix here that I am missing?

Thanks guys.

 

[dfariswheel]

NEVER make any changes to a major component of a firearm before:
1. Accurately diagnosing the ACTUAL problem.
2. Replacing or altering easy to replace/cheap parts FIRST.

Before you start cutting a valuable Pre-64 Model 70, try replacing the ejector and it's spring, and for the hell of it, the ejector pin.

Then ONLY if that doesn't do it, look at altering the bolt or receiver.

The chances a pre-64 Model 70 left the factory with an ejection problem is slim. This means it's almost certainly a worn/altered/dirty part, NOT the bolt or receiver. Look for worn/damaged/altered parts, dirt, burrs, etc. FIRST.

Alter the bolt or receiver, and it turns out to be something else, you've just damaged a fine rifle for no good purpose.

Again, if something has to be altered, you alter the parts that are the cheapest and easiest to replace. Altering a major component is the ABSOLUTE LAST resort.

 

[frontlander]

Good advice. I will consult a qualified gunsmith..

 

[DeBee]

dfariswheel has got it, don't mess with a Pre 64 especially one that shoots one inch groups with most factory loads. That is a gem of a rifle.

He's right, you'll probably need to have the ejector spring replaced or tweaked- Pre 64's will eject with either forceful slap or a gentle tug...

Minor repair for a gunsmith.