advice on removing bolt from muzzle loader barrel

[lost.in.indiana]

Howdy,

I just picked up a muzzleloader (209x50) that had been clearly hunted in the rain and snow.  I have successfully cleaned all of the rust off of it except on the bolt.  Can someone give me a tip on how to remove that pin that holds the bolt in?  Does it just take a punch, hammer, and some muscle?  Does the pin normally need to be replaced after removal, or can it be reused?  Do I need to compress the bolt and spring in order to aid in removing it?

I've made more than my share of mistakes in life by thinking I could undo something that I did...  Your advice in helping me avoid another one is appreciated!

Thanks a bunch,
John

[Keith L]

Is this an Encore or Contender ML barrel?  I am not understanding the question if it is.  If it is a TC inline maybe we can help you find the right forum to get your answers.

I loaned an inline to a friend who managed to get it rusted tight, and I got it back to work.

[lost.in.indiana]

It's an Encore inline barrel.  I believe that the bolt (and pardon me if I am using the wrong terminology - I looked at the diagram in the FAQ to make sure that was what it was called) is what I need help with.  

I have the breech plug out, and the 209 primer extractor.  The bolt is what locks the barrel in place when you close it, and is spring loaded.  It is located below the primer extractor, and is common on my other Encore pistol and rifle - I've just never had to remove one before.

Thanks for your help.  Someone please redirect me to the right forum if I am in the wrong place.

[sk330lc]

Yes you Need a Pin punch, a small hammer,and a vise or c-clamp.  Compress the Locking Lugs (bolts) with a Vise or small C-clamp. Drive the Pin out and let the spring tention off slowly.  Reverse to put back together.  the roll pin should Be ok to reuse.

[Hopalong7]

     I simply drive out the spring pin with the proper size punch, leaving the punch to hold the bolt in place.  Now I take the barrel in hand and push the end(bolt) up against the edge of my work bench, compressing the bolt spring, remove the punch and back-off the pressure on the bolt and remove.  Exact reverse for re-assembly...Voila!!!  Mine was one of the very first Encores and I haven't seen need to replace the spring pin yet.  Good Luck, Walt 

[Keith L]

I got ya.  The locking bolt.  Carry on...

[lost.in.indiana]

Awesome - thanks guys.  Will give it a go tomorrow afternoon!  Thanks for the tips.

John

Edit - got it done today.  Pin took a little more encouragement than I would have thought, but it came out nonetheless.  Not as much rust behind it as I had thought, but it was there.  The good thing is that it isn't there any longer!