What is the Bolt Face?
At the most fundamental level, the bolt face is the portion of the bolt that directly engages with the cartridge. It’s the meticulously machined surface that surrounds and supports the base of the cartridge case during the firing process. Think of it as the cradle that holds the bullet firmly in place, ready to be struck by the firing pin. The design of the bolt face, in conjunction with the extractor and ejector, plays a pivotal role in feeding, firing, extracting, and ejecting spent cartridges.
The significance of this seemingly simple feature cannot be overstated. It is the anchor point for the cartridge, ensuring that the bullet aligns perfectly with the bore and receives the full force of the primer’s ignition. A properly designed and fitted bolt face is essential for achieving consistent accuracy and for preventing a host of potential malfunctions. It’s a critical part of the equation when considering accuracy, and proper function.
How does the bolt face work? As the shooter manually cycles the bolt, the bolt face slides forward, picking up a fresh cartridge from the magazine. The cartridge then slides into the chamber, and the bolt face firmly holds the cartridge’s base against the breech face of the receiver. This is the moment of perfect alignment. The extractor, usually a spring-loaded claw, then grips the cartridge’s rim, ensuring it stays firmly in place. When the trigger is pulled, the firing pin strikes the primer, igniting the powder and sending the bullet downrange. After firing, the extractor facilitates the removal of the spent casing.
Variations in Bolt Face Designs
The Rem 700, being a versatile and widely adopted platform, has seen a variety of bolt face configurations, each designed to accommodate specific cartridge families. These variations are essential for accommodating the differing rim diameters and overall dimensions of various cartridges. Choosing the wrong bolt face is not just inconvenient; it can be dangerous.
The standard bolt face is, as the name suggests, the most commonly encountered variation. Designed to house cartridges like the .308 Winchester and the .243 Winchester, it features a relatively compact diameter, designed to work with the standard rim diameter of the 0.473″ case head. This bolt face is built to handle the pressure and stresses that come along with these common rounds. Many popular hunting and target shooting cartridges are housed by this bolt face, making it a versatile and reliable option.
The magnum bolt face represents a step up in size, designed to accommodate the larger, more powerful magnum cartridges. This configuration is typically found on rifles chambered for cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum and the 7mm Remington Magnum. These magnum cartridges boast larger case head diameters. Visually, the difference is immediately apparent: the magnum bolt face is noticeably larger, providing the necessary support for the broader rim of the magnum cartridges. This extra size is crucial for containing the increased pressure generated by these higher-performance rounds.
Beyond these two core categories, there are other, less common bolt face variations. These are often specific to particular cartridges, such as the bolt face used for the .223 Remington, or for specific, specialized chamberings. The rim diameter, the extractor, and the overall bolt design must be compatible with the specific cartridge to achieve optimal performance.
Identifying Your Rem 700 Bolt Face
Knowing the type of bolt face your Rem 700 utilizes is paramount for ensuring safe and reliable operation. Fortunately, there are several methods for identifying your bolt face.
A quick visual inspection can provide a useful starting point. Comparing your bolt face to known images or examples of standard and magnum bolt faces can offer a quick assessment. If you have access to another Rem 700, comparing the bolt faces side-by-side is a very effective method.
To obtain a precise measurement, you’ll need calipers. A pair of calipers will allow you to precisely measure the diameter of the bolt face. This measurement will reveal whether it’s a standard or magnum configuration. With the bolt removed from the receiver, measure the diameter of the recessed area of the bolt face. This measurement must be accurate. Be sure to take several measurements to ensure you are achieving an accurate reading.
Perhaps the most direct method is to simply try to chamber a cartridge. Ensure the rifle is unloaded and the magazine is empty. Attempt to chamber a cartridge known to be compatible with a standard or magnum bolt face. If the cartridge chambers smoothly and the bolt closes easily, then the bolt face is likely a match. Conversely, if the cartridge doesn’t chamber properly, or if there is excessive play or resistance, it could be an indication that the bolt face is not compatible. *Never* force a cartridge into the chamber.
Consulting reputable resources is also very valuable. The manufacturer’s specifications, online forums, and gunsmithing resources will provide the correct bolt face designation for your specific rifle’s chambering.
Considerations for Custom Rem 700 Builds
If you’re considering a custom Rem 700 build, the bolt face becomes even more critical. The correct bolt face choice is a cornerstone of success, a factor that will directly impact your rifle’s performance and safety.
The cartridge you select for your custom build will dictate the necessary bolt face. The bolt face *must* perfectly match the rim diameter of the chosen cartridge. Failure to adhere to this fundamental principle will result in a host of issues. Incorrect bolt face matching can lead to headspace issues, failure to extract, excessive bolt play, and increased chances of catastrophic failure.
When venturing into the world of custom builds, you’ll have several options regarding the bolt face. The easiest option may be to purchase a bolt body designed for a specific cartridge family. Another option would be machining the existing bolt face. This involves precise machining to enlarge or modify the bolt face to accommodate the cartridge. Regardless of the course you choose, proper headspacing is key.
Choosing a qualified and experienced gunsmith is an absolute must when undertaking a custom Rem 700 build. The gunsmith’s expertise in bolt-action design, and specifically, knowledge of the Rem 700 platform, will be invaluable in ensuring the project is a success.
Addressing Potential Problems
Bolt face issues can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Extractor problems are one common symptom. A poorly matched bolt face can prevent the extractor from correctly engaging the cartridge rim, leading to failure to extract. Another issue is primer problems. If the bolt face doesn’t provide adequate support, the primer may be exposed to excessive pressure, which can lead to misfires.
Fortunately, many of these issues are easily addressed. Replace worn or damaged extractors with quality replacements. The extractor is a simple yet crucial component. Regularly clean and lubricate the bolt face area. A build-up of debris, fouling, and old lubricant can interfere with smooth operation. If these problems persist, a thorough cleaning may resolve the problem. If you encounter issues with extraction, consider contacting a competent gunsmith for guidance.
Prioritizing Safety
Safety is paramount in any discussion about firearms. Using the wrong bolt face in your Rem 700 can create significant hazards. An incorrect bolt face may not provide the necessary support for the cartridge case head. It can lead to excessive headspace, causing the case to rupture. In extreme cases, this can result in the release of high-pressure gas, which can lead to serious injury to the shooter.
Properly matching the bolt face to the correct cartridge is non-negotiable. Always consult with a qualified gunsmith or refer to manufacturer specifications to ensure the compatibility of components before loading or firing. When handling and shooting any firearm, always adhere to all firearm safety protocols. These include keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, treating every firearm as if it is loaded, keeping your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and being certain of your target and what is beyond it.
In Conclusion
The Rem 700 bolt face is much more than just a small piece of metal. It’s an integral component of the rifle’s action, and a critical determinant of its function, accuracy, and safety.
This article has covered the intricacies of bolt face design and function, and what configurations are available. We have addressed how to identify your rifle’s bolt face, whether it is standard or magnum. For the gun enthusiast, understanding the bolt face is critical for proper function. Finally, remember that proper bolt face choice is critical for achieving the desired result.
If you have any questions regarding your rifle, consult a professional gunsmith. If you are thinking about a custom build, always choose a gunsmith with experience with Rem 700 rifles.
