Browning A-Bolt 3 (AB3) Bolt Lift

woodlotowner

woodlotowner

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Why is the (#### on open) bolt lift on this new AB3 so stiff? Little chance of staying on target with a quick reload as the bolt requires a huge amount of force to cycle the action. Is it something that will 'wear in' after use, or is this the reality of the AB3's action? This thread is not intended to solicit reviews of this rifle...
 
Thanks, Hitzy, but I do remember my grade 7 science classes from the '60s. :) Work=force x distance. With the A-Bolt's 60 degrees of travel required to cycle the action, one needs to exert greater force for a shorter distance to do the same work as needed with a 90 degree bolt design. Given this inescapable law of physics, and having owned A-Bolt and A-Bolt 2 rifles in the past, this particular AB3 has a ridiculously difficult bolt to operate by any standard. I have tried a dab of grease on the cocking piece ramp, and on the bolt lug faces (which is a given for any lugged bolt), but with no appreciable difference in effort required to cycle the infernal thing. It's almost as if Browning has increased the firing spring tension to unnecessary levels. How hard does the firing pin have to strike the primer to be 100% effective on these rifles is unknown. If it doesn't improve after 20 rounds or so it may be a candidate for shortening of said spring...
 
I have 2 of them, a short action 308 and a long action 270. The 270 is noticeably stiffer then the 308. I've had the bolt apart but not down to the spring... looked a little complicated to take it down any further and get back together.
A few coils would not hurt anything and lighten it up a bit. Ruger tried to address the same issues on the American with dual cams on the cocking piece and a 70 degree throw, but it's still stiffer then most actions.
 
I haven't investigated bolt disassembly as yet, but hopefully youtube is my friend. I agree that a reducing the static spring tension on the firing pin should help to lighten the action somewhat. I shall tread softly as I shorten the spring. Interesting info on Ruger's American though. My nephews in AZ have them and I have tried them in the past, but never felt that the actions were inordinately stiff to operate. Must note same on my next trip south. With this -30 weather we're experiencing here now, I wish I was away now...

If anyone reading this thread has a link to a good site on AB3 bolt disassembly, please share. :)
 
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