Gunsmith question

Andy J.

Andy J.

Doin’ it LIVE
Joined
Nov 5, 2005
Location
Winston
Any gunsmiths on the board? I'm trying to revive a JC Higgins Model 66 12ga shotgun and need to know how much play is acceptable in the bolt (headspace?) with the action closed. Right now there's about 3/32" back and forth play in the bolt. It's a 2-piece bolt, meaning the bolt sits on top of a slider. The slider doesn't move, only the top part.

That seems excessive to me, especially compared to my other (modern) shotguns, but I don't know what is considered normal with a shotgun this old. Anyone have any experience with JC Higgins or High Standard semi-auto shotguns?
 
the best way to determine if it is in spec is to purchase, or borrow, a set of go/no-go gauges. and possibly a field gauge. getting an accurate measurement without these is not going to be easy.
 
I don't disagree, I just didn't want to spend $100+ for gauges on a $150 shotgun. I did find a place online that rents the gauges though. $7 rental + $24 for shipping back and forth. If anyone local has a set they would let me borrow that would be awesome.
 
You could take an empty shell and put a couple pieces of masking tape on it. If the bolt will close with that chambered, it is too loose.
 
FrontPorchFab said:
Any gunsmiths on the board? I'm trying to revive a JC Higgins Model 66 12ga shotgun and need to know how much play is acceptable in the bolt (headspace?) with the action closed. Right now there's about 3/32" back and forth play in the bolt. It's a 2-piece bolt, meaning the bolt sits on top of a slider. The slider doesn't move, only the top part.

That seems excessive to me, especially compared to my other (modern) shotguns, but I don't know what is considered normal with a shotgun this old. Anyone have any experience with JC Higgins or High Standard semi-auto shotguns?
Click to expand...
Head space @ 3/32 " is acceptable on a gun of this era. (old school)
Feeler gauges do the exact same measurement.
The " experts" will disagree but i will shoot it, they won't.
Damn, i am being a cranky old fart.
 
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