Jump to content

Possible Issue with Bolt Lock


Recommended Posts

Attached are a couple pictures of my 1918A2 BAR's bolt lock. There are two on the top edge. Normal? Or do I need to replace? Does anyone have a good one laying around that they may wish to part with?

 

Also, how long should the recoil spring that goes in the fore end be?

 

Dan

post-259934-0-05332400-1626023688_thumb.jpg

post-259934-0-41423300-1626023701_thumb.jpg

Link to comment
Share on other sites

It's been awhile since I've owned one and the reoccurring unknown infection that gives me 107+ fevers has scrambled my brain somewhat , but isn't the locking surface the flat area aft of the curved arcs ? I don't think the worn areas do anything , but then why are they worn ?

Chris

Link to comment
Share on other sites

The spring in my parts kit is 16 1/2" (edit print shows 15.5+-.5 after setting). Do you think it tried to close on a broken case or some other obstruction. The locking shoulder is hardened, but so is the bolt lock. I think I would get a good look at the edge of the locking shoulder where it hit, and if it needed, carefully stone it flat also.

Edited by damifino
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I don't have a BAR nor do I have a very good drawing of the innards but from what I do have:

 

That curved area on the bolt lock slides over a corner between the inner surface of the rear part of the receiver top and the back edge of the locking recess in the receiver. I would be very concerned that over time those small depressions in the hardened bolt lock would impact that corner in the much softer receiver and damage it. Since malleable iron receivers cannot be repaired this is a non-trivial concern.

 

I strongly suggest you send those pictures to a competent gunsmith and get a professional opinion and repair or replace the bolt lock if he recommends it

Edited by StrangeRanger
Link to comment
Share on other sites

My September, 1947 TM9-1211 Ordnance Maintenance manual gives the free-length of all BAR springs (p.23) and gives the proper recoil spring measurements as: coils=130; mean assembled height=11 inches; load at assembled height=9.6 pounds (+ or- 1); load at Min. Operating height=18 pounds (+ or - 1): free length=16.5 inches.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...