Gunsmithing How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

You need to get a replacement bolt. One with a standard boltface. These can be had through PTG, but will need the bolt handle installed by a competent smith to ensure timing is correct. I think there are ways to bush the bolt face, but not likely worth the time or effort with replacement bolts so reasonable.

DD
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Tripple G here in TX will fit a bushing and make it work with a SAKO type extractor, Its actually cheaper to order a new bolt from PTG and it gets even cheaper if you sell your mag bolt.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Here are some examples from Midway, while they are expensive (cheaper to part out an action from academy) Your lookin at about a buck and a half to trade up if you sell your bolt for $150.

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=516892

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=128245

Another way to get there is buy a bolt without handle for $125
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=454096

$25 for the handle and $10 for the knob
http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=527978

Another $100 after shipping both ways to send your new bolt, handle, and action to SSG to get the handle attached and timed.

 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Easiest way, sell the magnum and buy a .260. No, I'm not kidding. In the long run, least fits and least bucks.

I like gunsmiths, but for the life of me I cannot understand why folks insist on modifying a gun when what they really need is a different gun from scratch.

If thy gun offends thee, pluck it out (and buy something more appropriate).

Build? Build if you must, but what you want is very likely already out there pissin' somebody else off.

Repeat after me..., WTB...WTB..., WTB...

Greg
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

I'd have to agree with Greg.

Guys, it's an M70, not an M700. No "PTG" bolt, no "Sako Extractor", etc. Now I'm not sure if it's pre-64, post-64, or "Classic" action, but if it's anything other than a push-feed post 64, you can forget the idea of "bushing" the boltface, or somehow modifying it for std rim diameter. And then there's magazine, feed lips, etc. to consider.

Cheers,

Bill
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

The original post M700 and said nothing about 260, was just asking if it was possible to switch a 700 bolt from mag to medium bolt face. OP has changed the question. If 260 was in the original thread it would have been asked why bother with a LA for the 260.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

What about changing to a 6.5 Rem mag which is a magnum cartridge, I know it is a short action cartridge but it would allow me to seat the bullet out further?
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: REMY308</div><div class="ubbcode-body">What about changing to a 6.5 Rem mag which is a magnum cartridge, I know it is a short action cartridge but it would allow me to seat the bullet out further?</div></div>

That's exactly what I did. I had a 70 I wanted chambered in 6.5x55, but it had a mag face, so I went with 6.5 RM instead. I'm pretty happy with the results, but you would probably be better off starting with something closer to what you want.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

how is recoil. i heard it is minimal to moderate. My rifle already weighs 10lbs and that is with a sporter barrel. When I rebarrel it I am going to a heavy varmit barrel which sould add an additional 2lbs. Also how has your barrel life been?
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

With the bolt-face issues along with the feed issues I agree it would be better to get the rifle you want from the start. Don't sell the Winchester if you don't have to. It could come in handy later on. But if you need or want the cash now, it's a good source for that.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Recoil isn't anything to speak of. I'd say it's the same or less than an '06. I don't have too many rounds through it right now, so I can't comment on barrel life. I was guessing 1500-2000 if I keep pressures low.

Also, it feeds fine with no modifications (in a push feed anyway), so there isn't any additional work to do.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

Remy308,

A couple things you will also need to do then.

One: Have the rails modified so that they match the .260 case. There isn't too much of a taper difference but the .300 case is wider and it will need some 'massaging' to get the .260 bullets pointed toward the center of the chamber.

Two: You might think about putting in a block at the rear of the magazine. To do this you would also need to shorten the follower.
The reason being for that is the shorter .260 cases won't support the front of the case being chambered. The top cartridge will want to nosedive down into your magazine. By shortening the follower (or getting a rem .260 follower) the cases on the top of a loaded magazine will want to ride the other cases until they hit the feed ramp.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Scimitar</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Sell it and get a new action. You can get a FN(model 70)
SPR action for 350 from CDNN and it comes with bottom metal
and a Near Mfg 20 MOA scope rail.</div></div>

Again, sage advice!

You can change it for all the heartache it may cause you or just buy a new one the way you want it.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Easiest way, sell the magnum and buy a .260. No, I'm not kidding. In the long run, least fits and least bucks.
I like gunsmiths, but for the life of me I cannot understand why folks insist on modifying a gun when what they really need is a different gun from scratch.Greg </div></div>

I would imagine that some people would rather modify a gun that they already have, especially one with no paper trail, than buying a new gun and leaving a paper trail.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: p620346</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Easiest way, sell the magnum and buy a .260. No, I'm not kidding. In the long run, least fits and least bucks.
I like gunsmiths, but for the life of me I cannot understand why folks insist on modifying a gun when what they really need is a different gun from scratch.Greg </div></div>

I would imagine that some people would rather modify a gun that they already have, especially one with no paper trail, than buying a new gun and leaving a paper trail.</div></div>

Okay, then buy one in state in any number of private deals offered all the time in the paper. Even on the auction sites, a lot of sellers will allow you to pick up FTF if you are in state.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: p620346</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg Langelius *</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Easiest way, sell the magnum and buy a .260. No, I'm not kidding. In the long run, least fits and least bucks.
I like gunsmiths, but for the life of me I cannot understand why folks insist on modifying a gun when what they really need is a different gun from scratch.Greg </div></div>

I would imagine that some people would rather modify a gun that they already have, especially one with no paper trail, than buying a new gun and leaving a paper trail. </div></div>

If your worried about a papertrail your either a whacko or a Felon who prolly shouldnt have the gun int he first place.

Sell the action and get one of the new FN's from CDNN more fit for the gig.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

I have been converting surplus 98 Mauser actions from 8x57mm to 7mmRemMag, 300WM, or 338WM.
That conversion is just ok.
But converting 98 Mausers to .223 is just too big a pain.
I have done it:(
And I have done it:(
I am willing to take metal off, but not put metal on.
I will just buy .223 rifles and re barrel them.
Life is too short.

What does it all mean?
Trade with someone to get the right kind of action.
 
Re: How do you convert a magnum action to a non magnum

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Jon Lester</div><div class="ubbcode-body">264 win mag is your solution. You only have to change the tube.</div></div>

If you aren't interested in buying a new rifle, this suggestion is probably the best one you will hear in this thread.

You can download it and save yourself a ton of barrel life as well.