Need advice on headspace problem

[Howa4AU]

I just finished building a 6.5 CM with DPMS receivers. I couldn't find any bolts/carriers in stock so I ordered my parts including my barrel, built the gun and then just this week found some bolts coming back in stock. Ordered a DPMS bolt/chrome carrier from Rainier. Came in today, dropped it in my receiver and it won't headspace. The barrel is a Criterion from Fulton Armory. I got home too late today to call Fulton.

Do you think I can send the bolt and barrel back to Fulton and see if they will headspace it? Or do you think there may be a difference in a DPMS and a Titan bolt and they normally set headspace off of their bolts? If so I could just order a Titan bolt from Fulton and hope it works? Any ideas? Of course I can call them on Monday, but wondering what you guys think the answer is.

BTW- the gun looks great- all dressed up with no where to go...

 

[RufDog]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

Can you describe how you checked the headspace?

 

[Howa4AU]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

That's possibly part of the problem here also. I checked it with a new piece of brass. I have a set of Go/No Go gauges on the way from Creedmoor sports. I haven't been able to find a set in stock anywhere until this week. Brass chambers smoothly in my bolt action, but the bolt will not close on the same brass in the AR.

I've read where people claim that's how they've checked headspace, but I don't know if I am completely comfortable with that, however I am expecting that the bolt is not going to close on the Go gauge either.

Another possible consideration, albeit I think unlikely, is that I tried the brass on a complete bolt and the ejector on the new bolt is very strong. I'm thinking I may could remove the ejector and see if it will close. If so, maybe the ejector needs a little breaking in. I don't want to slam it on the case too hard with the ejector in and get it stuck. But I am also thinking it should have closed anyway.

Any advice please from you guys with experience for the new guy?

 

[mtrmn]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

Yes--when checking headspace, remove both the ejector and extractor. Use a cleaning rod to knock the headspace gage or cartridge out of the chamber. Use a little lube on the brass if you force the bolt closed so you can get it back out again.

You need to feel how much resistance you have when/if the bolt closes fully. The ejector/extractor may give erroneous "feel" if not removed. Remember the NO-GO gage may allow the bolt to close, but it should be very tight. A field gage should never allow the bolt to close.

You said this was new unfired brass? Maybe try another one. If you have reloading dies, full-length size it and try again.

 

[RufDog]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

Also, are you using small base dies?

 

[Howa4AU]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

I've tried new brass and full length resized brass. Both work slick in my Savage bolt gun. I took out the ejector and extractor and no luck. Looks like maybe a chamber issue as had been suggested. Still could try the gauges when they get here.

I've already checked OAL to lands for several bullets in anticipation of loading and they are all fairly long. eg. 2.95 for a Berger 130 gr. VLD.

 

[mtrmn]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

For sure try the gages when you get them, but I'd be on the phone with Fulton as early as possible Monday.

 

[BCP]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

I had the same problem with a fulton stainless barrel. When I asked them I was told they short-chamber them and that they will headspace it to my bolt for 25$ so I sent it back.

Also they respond to emails you don't have to pick up the phone.

 

[Howa4AU]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

To report back to you guys on this-

I stripped my bolt, and kept playing with it. turns out if was just really stiff and a lot of friction in the new parts. Was able to get it to close on fl resized brass. Adding more grease to the bolt/carrier and working the bolt. Also letting it slam a little on the brass. Put the bolt back together. Got it to close on the brass. once closed it would eject with no problem.

Took it out and shot it. I have about 80 rounds down the tube now with no problems and no malfunctions. Working much smoother.

First OCW test with 130 grain Berger Hunting VLD's - worst group was .73", best was .3"

Also shot pretty well with 140 Amax and 140 Match Kings.

 

[mtrmn]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

I use what I consider excessive amounts of Mobil 1 engine oil throughout my BCG, makes it slick and easy to just wipe the carbon off with just a shot of WD40.

 

[223Rem]

Re: Need advice on headspace problem

Headspace gages are for exactly that, checking headspace. They are made out of hardened steel and will not conform to the chamber's dimensions.

Brass is super soft and will conform to the chamber's dimension with enough force.

If anything when using brass as a headspace gage with gasguns, remove the ejector and extractor on the bolt. Remove the barrel from the upper. Place the size case in the chamber and firmly press the bolt into the extension. If the bolt does not spin I would not shoot the combo.