SKS bolt snagging? (solved)

[webseo514]

Got my (first ever) SKS this week. I just stripped it down and reassembled and noticed the when cycling the bolt manually (slowly) there's a hesitation about 3/8" from closed. Although I handled it a while before I took it apart I don't recall that hesitation.

If I release the bolt carrier at that point (where I feel a 'snag'/resistance) it closes on its own firmly. With snap-caps if I let it go full length (pull back and release) it also appears to close just fine. It sounds fine too.

Just want to make sure I didn't do something that will cause stress and/or prevent proper cycling.

Thanks

(edited to add 'solved')

 

[ljones]

Make sure you replaced the recoil spring in properly. The curly end goes into the bolt carrier and the straight end rests in receiver cover. It will operate the other way around but it will catch like you detail and can lead to feeding issues. Other than that the SKS is meant to be cycled firmly. Pull bolt back to release and let it fly to chamber a round. Don't follow it slowly. You won't hurt it.

 

[webseo514]

Aha! I did that part over and this time felt the back end of the spring pop/snap into the 'pocket' of the receiver cover. I had to apply a amount of pressure to the receiver cover last time but this time with the spring seated where it belongs there was maybe 1/8" resistance get things lined up.

The snag is now noticeably reduced to non-existent. I guess the spring and rod were aligned improperly the first time. Glad I asked

Thanks very much!