Winchester 9422 Chambering Problem

[Abe]

I recently purchased a new Winchester 9422. I got it at a gun show from a dealer on the other side of the state. I took it to the range this past Friday. I loaded the magazine, pulled back the lever to chamber a round and as I was closing the lever the round to be chamber got jammed between the bolt and the side of the receiver. I opened the bolt, shook out the round, attempted to chamber another round and the same thing happened. Needless to say this is what happened for the entire contents of the magazine.

Upon further inspection of the mechanism it seems rather odd. There is a small lever that picks up the next round from the magazine and lifts it up to be chambered. The strange thing is that there isn't anything to prevent the round from falling off this lever as it rises to the chamber. Moreover, it doesn't seem to get high enough, fast enough for the bolt to grab it and push it into the chamber. By the time the bolt is close the round has already fallen off into the side of the receiver and gets pinched\jammed.

I've dis-assembled the mechanism and it appears to function properly. Nothing looks wrong or missing.

Is anyone familiar with the mechanism used in this rifle? Any idea what is wrong?

Thanks,

Abe

 

[yankytrash]

First, I'd try switching ammo. Try to find a FMJ equivalent and see how she feeds. When in doubt, go the cheapest route...

You are using LR, aren't you? Not shorts or regular 22 rimfire?

Next, try chambering the rounds a little faster, Cowboy Action quick. Could be that the fumbling around is causing troubles, like trying to close the bolt on an FAL to slow (pull'r back, let'r fly!).

If that fails, sit on the couch with'r and just work the action over and over. Kinda break it in, so to speak. Could be that stuff is just workin a little too stiff right now, too new of a fit right now.

That action's been around awhile, and it's worked well. I really think that a quicker cocking action and perhaps a more practiced level hold will cure it out.

Keep us posted.

 

[Abe]

Thanks yankytrash. I was using Winchester Wildcat 22LR. I've got a bunch of Remington 22LR so I'll try that. I'll also try working the action much more quickly with a more level hold as you suggest.

- Abe

 

[Dave Markowitz]

I have a 9422. Some ammo feeds better than others, and all ammo feeds better when the action is worked briskly.

FYI, in my rifle the smoothest feeding rounds are the Aquila Sniper Subsonics.

Also, make sure you keep the bolt and extractor clean. The rifle can jam up if they get too dirty, in my experience.

I think you'll like your rifle. Mine's a sweet shooter and very accurate.

 

[Abe]

Thanks Dave. We're back in the deep freeze up here so I haven't had a chance to get to the range and try it out. I'll keep you posted.

- Abe

 

[Abe]

All is well!!! We got a break in the deep freeze today (38F) so my sons and I ran out to the range. (Stopped at Gander Mountain and picked up an assortment of 22LR first.) Working the action quickly was the key. It works great now. Eats any ammo flavor that it's fed. No more lazy-leverin'. I put 50 rounds thru it and my seven year old son put another 50 thru it without a hitch.

Thanks for the assistance.

- Abe