Gunsmithing Win pre 64 M70 bolt handle hitting scope.

[Joe9735]

I have a pre-64 M70. Its a shooter and not a collector. When mounting a USO SN3 1.8-10
power scope, I found that the bolt handle hits the scope.

I also have a 1962 Rem 700 and mounted the same scope on it and it just barely clears the scope.
In fact I have to take my thumb off the handle and pull it back with just my fingers in order to
work the bolt.

Has anyone else had this issue when mounting a USO on an older rifle? Are you just bending the bolt
handles in order to make them clear the larger diameter eyepiece/magnification ring?

 

[stephen_allen]

I had a custom knob installed on my pre-64 and it comes close to the scope (nightforce atacr) but maintains plenty of clearance to operate. I think the extra length acquired from the custom knob helps my situation...the rifle was worked over prior to shooting it with the night force so I don't know what it was like with the factory knob and large optic. I can take some pictures of the bolt clearance if you like.

 

[Joe9735]

What type of rail are you using? I have been using the original Weaver Mounts, and I think it is part of the problem. I am having trouble finding a picatinny style rail because I don't have much experience with the pre 64. It was manufactured in 1959.

 

[pipewhiner]

Farrell makes a picatinny rail for the pre-64. Ken will also do a 20moa

 

[stephen_allen]

I had a ken farrell rail on mine but it was a little tall for my taste. After a lot of searching I found a nice EGW rail with 20 moa cant.