Sako TRG 42 bolt fit

barsik

Private
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 10, 2013
17
2
alberta
I just purchased a new model trg 42, this is the one with the dual ejectors and redesigned safety lever. oh yeah, it also has the new upgraded trigger unit with non adjustable 2nd stage. I took the rifle home for three days to carefully examine it and was assured that if I didn't like it, I could return it. my mistake was not getting that in writing. anyway down to the heart of my problem. closing the bolt on the rifle while unloading the firing pin spring, I get a substantial amount of free play in the bolt(unloading the firing pin takes the firing pin spring pressure off the bolt). there is no bolt lug/ receiver contact and I can pull backward on the bolt and get a fair little bit of movement, about 3-4 paper thickness worth. the bolt handle has no friction at full lock and the bolt will rattle if you shake the rifle. to me this seems excessive for a precision rifle. the dealer insists this is normal and is refusing to accept return of the rifle. I have been around firearms since I was responsible enough to be safe with them and this particular one is the sloppiest one I've ever had. the barrel is a work of art, but the barrel/receiver fitment seems really excessive. what is the maximum allowable limit for bolt movement? I understand this is creating headspace, but how much? can this be repaired simply by cutting more threads on the barrel and turning the barrel deeper into the receiver? any information would be greatly appreciated.
 
I think you're over thinking it. I have 3 TRG's(2-22's, 1-42) and they all demonstrate what you are describing. If you were to remove the firing pin assembly and refit the bolt and close it you will see how much free play there is. This is normal.
 
I haven't shot it, I want to get the fit of the bolt sorted out before I send pills down the pipe. I have a Tikka super varmint which is mfg'd by the same company and the bolt fit is almost an interference fit and the accuracy of the rifle is simply outstanding, plus brass shows no expansion in the web. this sounds like everything else on the internet, but the rifle will go under 1/2" consistently, if it goes over it is my fault. it just seems really excessive to me, like they fitted it to run in the desert or something, and the accuracy is going to be less than optimal. i sent an email direct to Sako, but I want feedback from impartial observers and experienced owners, like Marcoman. thank you.