870 express bolt movement when auction is open

[BeaverMeat]

Is it normal for the bolt to move back and forth at the rear of the receiver when the action is open?

Non of my past and current Wingmasters and Police 870s did that. This is my first express.

 

[madtrapper143]

Just checked two of mine. Both Express Models one 12 gauge and one 16 gauge. The 12 gauge moves and the 16 gauge does not. 12 gauge is recent manufacture. I have noticed no issues with reliability or shoot ability. I would say we are good to go.

Darryl

 

[BeaverMeat]

Yeah, it's a current model. I don't like it, but if it does't effect function I guess it doesn't matter.

I wonder if there is a way to prevent it.

 

[EL34/6L6]

Yeah mine does too. I inquired at one time and was told that they can have some play. Might be only one the newer Express' though(?)

 

[Grouse Man]

I guess instead of stamping the action arms large and then hand-filing them to the breechblock plate, they just stamp them small enough to fit everything, with a little play left over? Yeah, I'm sure it's a cost-cutting measure.

 

[BeaverMeat]

Oh well. It works fine enough for its intended use.