Mosin bolt finish

[bluemike807]

I've noticed, in many of the photos of peoples' M91/30s that their bolt heads are quite shiny and smooth; a nice finish.

Mine looks like it was made with a chisel and is very uneven, and basically sh*tty looking. Is that... normal? Mine's an Izhevsk 42, so I presume they were just trying to whack them together and get them out the door but it seems almost all of the photos I'm seeing online, even from the same factory/era, have a markedly better finish. The bolt stem on mine seems very short and thick too.

What gives?

 

[Claven2]

In 1942 and 1943, the roughest finishes were seen. In the rebuild program, most rifles did not keep their original bolts, so seeing a nicer bolt in a 19042 isn't uncommon. In general though, 1942's originally had very rough machined bolts.

I would not worry about it. It's a proper Mosin part from what you describe.

 

[ArtyMan]

Yup, sounds about right. If it fires I wouldnt worry about it

 

[mg4201]

take some time and smooth where the bolt pieces fit together especially the cocking ramps the difference in smoothness will surprise you. leave the lugs alone though headspace problems could result . enjoy, mosins kick a$$