Ruger M77 Bolt Re-installation issues, help needed

[Mount Sweetness]

I removed the bolt of my M77 (1976, two position tang safety) to clean the barrel...no problem, easy, smooth.

I cannot for the life of me figure out how to get the bolt back in....? The safety needs to be in firing mode...(I think)....but the back end bolt cap hits the saftey and can not be inserted....
When the saftey is in safe mode it immediately prevents bolt installation completely....
I have tried using the trigger....tried everything...

Do I need to removal the trigger assembly....?

Anyone know how to re-install this thing?

Please help
Thanks
Greg

 

[stanway]

Greg,

If I recall correctly, the bolt face rotates on those bolts. Try rotating the bolt face 180deg and it should line up so you can insert the bolt.

Good luck.

James

 

[pharaoh2]

You may have de-cocked the bolt on removal. Is the firing pin protruding from the bolt face?

 

[tiriaq]

Twist the bolt sleeve until the firing pin is cocked.

 

[Mount Sweetness]

yes, firing pin is protruding
I suppose I will need to rotate to get it cocked
I'll try it out and let you know
thanks

 

[Mount Sweetness]

I cannot get the firing pin to ####. it is still protruding even after twisting

am I doing something wrong?

 

[flinter]

Just tried mine to recock it I had to rap it in a rag and hold it in a vice
Then I was able to turn the Bolt and recock the firing pin
Then it almost fell in as usual
I've never tried to disassemble the bolt

 

[Mount Sweetness]

Got in back in now. It takes a strong grip and a solid twist to #### the bolt...lots of spring tension in there.
Got it back in and ready to hunt again.

Thanks everyone for your help.
Happy New Year!