Worn Extractor Tail

This is probably the most common condition found on the straight-pull action. At the tail of the extractor (opposite the claw) there is a small rib measuring approx. .40" long. This rib bears against the shaft of the bolt head. When the bolt head is in the extended position the rib snaps into an axial slot in the shaft. Another axial slot in the shaft corresponds to the retracted position. The slots on the shaft of the bolt head are located 90 degrees apart.

If the rib is worn it will not properly lock the bolt head in the extended position. A quick-fix is to increase the amount of arc in the extractor thereby increasing the amount of force with which it bears against the bolt head shaft. This fix will help to keep the bolt head extended but it will also result in stiff operation of the bolt and accelerated wear to the rib.

Figure 1. This photo is an end view of the tail of the extractor. A line drawing has been superimposed above the extractor to show the desired profile of the rib. A worn extractor rib will exhibit a large radius at the apex of the angle and the right face will be more inclined than upright. Worn ribs may be repaired with a file but this may damage any surface hardening that exists, leading to accelerated wear in the future. Replacement of the extractor is recommended. A small radius at the apex of the angle is permissable. The extractor shown in the picture is marginally acceptable. Any extractor that exhibits more wear than this should certainly be replaced.

If the profile of the extractor rib is not unduly worn and the bolt head still fails to lock securely in the extended position, then the amount of arc in the extractor should be increased slightly. Note that the extractor rib should be closely examined first before increasing the arc of the extractor.

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