woodmaster 742's

[dannyr]

I have two remington woodmaster 742's. One older model passed down from a left handed Great Great Uncle who cussed it because he would reach over and get his thumb caught in the action when tying to load / unload or mess with it....I just remember the story as a young kid  and thought it was funny because he was an old salt who could be cruel to a young kid who made lots of his own goofs...anyway  He sold this to my dad for cheap,  dad passed on and now I have the gun, yes it has lots of memories and I would like to keep it.....my question is, yeah, I know   finally    My son in law took this rifle out to the range and when he shot the action/chamber did not close all the way and gun powder sprayed out over him. Nothing hurt he is o.k. My question... is this an easy fix? Is there a spring in side for the auto action that has weakened over time? Anyone know much about this rifle? I don't know any gunsmiths in the area and was wanting a little insight before I go out and seek help locally.

My second 742 was purchased by me as a new bicentennial model with the gold scrollwork.  Is there much difference between the older i am guessing 1960's model and the bicentennial I have?
Thanks for your help
dan[/b]

[Judson]

I try to avoid working on the 742 Jam Masters however it sounds like the rifle may have a broken firing pin with the front, tip end, stuck forward.    The other cause of what you described would be for the hammer to follow the bolt forward as in a slam fire.   If the bolt had not been closed all the waw or nearly so there would have been severe damage to the gun and in all probability the shooter.    You need to get the rifle checked out!!!!    The condition you talked about is very un safe!!! If you want give me a call I am a Custom Gunsmith but also do repair work.   I do not know where you are from but I am up here in St. Albans Maine.    # 207-938-3595

[3006bluffhunter]

The poster above was right get it checked out by a smith....I had one and it was showing signs of wear in the receiver...One smith told me better send it down the road before it is worth the price of the forarm and the stock....Hate to scare you but on that model 742 remington had some big problems.In the receiver & action areas...Remington does not have parts to fix that 742 model.....You would have to find a downer gun.....What is going on could be terminal....