Sloppy bolt action

[Ogre One]

I recently acquired a Mossberg 100 ATR. First use the bolt seemed "stiff" but had a lot of side-to-side once unlocked. I also noticed that over-tightening the stock screw interfered with the bolt. Lesson learned on that one. Still, there seems to be a lot of "slop" in the bolt movement. Is there anything I can do to snug things up or is this "normal" for this particular model? Just wondering...

 

[1911 guy]

Being loose unlocked doesn't really matter. What does matter is if the lugs on the bolt lock into the receiver consistently and squarely every time.

 

[rcmodel]

Loose when opened is normal for almost any bolt-action.

Wiggle a 98 Mauser or 03 Springfield and see.

It is necessary to prevent binding and stiff movement.
Especially under less then ideal field conditions when you may have dirt or weed seeds get in there.

rc

 

[Ogre One]

I can understand "loose". I realize that "feel" has a lot to do with anything mechanical. This just doesn't feel smooth in operation. The bolt locking and unlocking functions well enough; ejection is normal, but racking the next round just doen't feel right. maybe need to run a few more round through it.

 

[rcmodel]

Have you tried putting a little dab of grease on the locking lugs and cocking cam??

That might do wonders to the feel.

rc

 

[Ogre One]

What type do you recommend?

 

[rcmodel]

Whatever.

I use Gunslick graphite, but they quit making it.

Moly grease, auto chassis grease, etc, will work.
Just about any grease that will stay where you put it and not run off like oil will work.

White Lithium grease is one easily available one at hardwares in small tubes, and is a traditional firearms grease.
http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1295693&cp=2568443.2568455.2631180

rc

 

[Kp321]

Have you heard the adage " You get what you pay for" ? All bolt action rifles have pretty much the same components so the more you pay, the better the fit and finish. As 1911Guy said, it is how it locks up that matters.
On the lube issue, moly grease I'd a little messy but it sure does the job on locking lugs and cocking cams. Be sure that the firing pin assembly is not lubed of cold weather use is anticipated. Or at least use silicone on it.