Gunsmithing Newbie intro and question

[Long_Trang]

Hello. I'd like to introduce myself. My name is Chuck and I've been through a few other forums and found I like this one over others. I live in Southern Ca, did a stretch in the USMC, have a bit of reloading experience and recently acquired a custom .300 Win Mag. I'm just about ready to start my own loads for my winnie, only have to get my hands on some primers and powder. I'll have many questions and I think I'll begin with this one:

I had a gunsmith, who doesn't really seem to be sure of himself, tell me to apply white lithium grease to the lugs on my bolt. He did explain that without it, my bolt would wear and develop a bit of play thereby degrading the rifles accuracy. Does his claim have any merit? If not, any ideas as to what is the best way to care for it?

Thanks in advance and I'm glad to be here!

 

[bohem]

Re: Newbie intro and question

IMO, yes and no.

The contact pressure during bolt operation is very low, the cam surfaces on the bolt for extraction will see the highest pressures except during the firing process. During the firing process the bolt is not moving, so it's just static contact. Not much wear from that. Fretting could occur, but that's a very very small effect.

The worst thing that I can see happening from a greased bolt is that it's a dust/dirt magnet that doesn't easily wipe clean in the field. You now have lapping compound in your action all the time.

I personally keep my rifles with a light oil film (spray on, wipe off) that keeps the bolt from rusting. I don't grease the bolt.

I do use a light grease on the firing pin (very light spray on grease) and cocking pieces.


EDIT: Welcome, btw.

 

[Victor N TN]

Re: Newbie intro and question

Shooting a dry bolt will cause the lugs to gaul. I prefer Mobil 1 Synthetic Multipurpose grease. A spot the size of a BB on the back of each bolt lug will take care of it. Do that each time you clean and the bolt will last longer than you will.

 

[Victor N TN]

Re: Newbie intro and question

Welcome to the Hide. Come on in and join the many and varied conversations.

If you know something about a given thread post your experience. If not, you're welcome to sit back and absorb what you wish.

Most of us older folk really appreciate it if you fill out your profile if you haven’t already.

Once again, nice to have you here.

 

[x ring accuracy]

Re: Newbie intro and question

I agree, I use a small smidgen of a touch on the back side (the side facing rear) of the lugs and it helps. It will become gritty in time so a thorough dousing once a year is in order depending on amount of shooting done. It does help the bolt lasting and if seating any load into the lands I have been told it's a must. Can't hurt the way I see it. Of all of my rifles, my 300WM is my favorite. A little more money to shoot but at 1000 yds, you know you hit it with something

. Not as acurate as say my 6.5/284 but has a whallup to it. And welcome to the hide. How do you spell wallup? wollop?

 

[treedoc]

Re: Newbie intro and question

I use a drip of Militec on the lug wear points each time I clean. FN, Remington...smooths em' all.

Just my .02.

 

[Long_Trang]

Re: Newbie intro and question

Thanks Gents! Really appreciate it. Will go over my profile and be sure to complete it for ya. Thanx again!