Issue with Rem 660 bolt not closing

[Bigbubba]

I have this Rem 660 that I bought from a local guy.
Prior to today, I have never shot it or removed the bolt to look down the barrel.

Today I go to the range, remove the bolt, look down the barrel (kind of bore sighting it in).
Put bolt back in - and it will not close all the way.

Prior to this I could work the bolt open and closed with no issues. Now it will not close up tight to the stock like it did before

When i got it home it tried again and with some force I can close it tight and with more force I can re-open it but it should be smooth like it was before

Any thoughts on why this is? I cannot see anything obstructing the bolt from closing

Pictures - and btw it will fire with the bolt closed as far as I can get it which is picture 3 & 4

Bolt open all the way

Bolt as far forward as it will go

rmally go

Bolt closed as far as I can get it without force

Another view

 

[maynard]

First question. Is that a new scope that you just mounted? Scope base screws too long binding locking lugs at the front of the bolt.
Second question. Did you take the action out of the stock? Maybe tightened the actions screws a tad too much and the front screw is now up into the locking lug recess. Loosen front action screw and see if this helps with the bolt closing.

 

[220]

Maynard, you are right on

 

[wannabe]

take the bolt out and feel inside the top of the locking lug recesses with your little finger....you might be able to feel the screws intruding into where the bolt lug wants to go...

 

[Bigbubba]

First question. Is that a new scope that you just mounted? Scope base screws too long binding locking lugs at the front of the bolt.
Second question. Did you take the action out of the stock? Maybe tightened the actions screws a tad too much and the front screw is now up into the locking lug recess. Loosen front action screw and see if this helps with the bolt closing.

Thank you.
Yes new scope, and yes that was the problem.
Interesting because I have used Talley rings on another 660 and I did not have any problems (which is why I wasnt thinking it was the scope screws)
Took scope off and it opens closed like a dream.

And it is interesting that it opened and closed fine after the scope install, but once the bolt was out and put back in it didnt
Again, why I wasnt thinking scope screws were the issue.

No to 2nd question but thank you for suggesting it

I guess i will make the screws a little shorter.

Thanks again

 

[guntech]

This is such a common problem... it's hard to believe how often this happens...