Remington model 7 loose bolt?????

[Rem7targetactical]

I have a Remington Model 7 in 308 win. I recently had it reworked. It now has a 23.5" Shilen SS tube in varmint contour with a JP Cooley brake, and a PTG 1 piece bolt assembly with Sako extractor. After all is said and done it shoots very well thus far holding groups at 1/2 moa. at 200 yds. My concern is that i dont remember my bolt feeling so loose or having so much play in it when fully opened. The local rangemaster said it does seem loose but its not a big deal because it shoots fine and the lugs are lapped making everything tight while closed. I realize the far rear part of the receiver is shorter providing less support than a 700 but does anyone else have a 7 that feels loose while open in comparison to a 700? Can this be eliminated by "truing" the action and using a oversize bolt or is this a characteristic of the model 7 ?????? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

I have a model 7 LS in 300SAUM and the bolt on it rattles like a mofo when it's open. I also had another one in 223 a few years back that I ended up selling and I remember it having a lot of slop as well. I'd say just the nature of the beast. Handy little rifle though.

 

[Rem7targetactical]

Agreed, very handy. I have no complaints, just wanted to be sure there was nothing to be alarmed over. Thanks for the reply.

 

[6.5BR]

Owned a few, they rattle like a 700, if you've owned a custom or other 'tighter' toleranced actions there is less slop when open. As long as the lugs cinch down and your groups say they are, you are good. When you dry fire, does the bolt stay more or less closed w/o alot of movement? Does the bolt closed on an empty chamber snug in firmly? I DOUBT seriously you have any worries. Enjoy. Had 7BR built years ago by Pac-Nor and it shot .3 - .5 w/good loads and when I shot well.