Missing mauser bolt

[zg47]

I've managed to come across a barrelled LR 98 action. The problem is its missing its bolt. Is it as simple as grabbing another 98 bolt and checking headspace?

Thanks Mike

 

[sunray]

"Checking headspace" is a bit of a misnomer. A bolt has to be fitted by a smithy for headspace. Not exactly the end of the World. Trick will be finding the right bolt. Try Western Gun Parts. Marstar is sold out.

 

[p-17]

Other alternative is to go to the next monthly BCHACS gun show. I always see at least one guy there selling a '98 bolt. If you go with that option, I would take the rifle with you to make sure that the bolt functions with it. There were different lengths of the 98 action, with correspondingly different bolts. You need to make sure you get the right bolt.

Assuming your bolt works and functions in the receiver, you'll then have to go to a gunsmith to check for headspace. You should assume that headspace will be off, in which case your smith will have to possibly cut the barrel back and/or use a chamber reamer. If you go that route, you might as well have the smith lap the lugs, also, since the new bolt will likely not be a perfect fit in the receiver.