Follow-up: Enfield Headspace question

[mannyrock]

 
Hi,
 
   This is a follow up, regarding measuring headspace on an Enfield (Savage) .303, No. 4, Mk 1.
 
   The bolt has a brand new No. 1 head on it.  I just got a brand new Field Gauge, from Okie.  It is a dime gauge.     I strictly followed the Okie instructions.
 
   The bolt will  NOT close all of the way on the Field Gauge.  From its top position, the bolt handle closes down about two-thirds of the way, but not the final one-third of the way.
 
   So now what?   I feel like if I run out and buy and install a new No. 2 head, then the headspace may be too tight, and I don't have the other two gauges to measure this.
 
   All insights and suggestions are welcome.
 
Thanks, Mannyrock
 
 

[oneoldsap]

                   If it won't close all the way , you should be good to go !

[gunnut69]

The field guage not being closed on means its likely not dangerous but the 'no go' is the headspace test for maximum headspace allowable. The go guage just says the bolt will allow in spec ammo to chamber. The field guage is to decide weather to remove a rifle from service. Usually a rifle that fails a no go guage is considered by sporting smiths to be out of service.. You really should test with a no go guage...