Breech wear concern at extractor notch on a '52 94?

[STW]

New to the forum. Sounds like there are some knowledgeable folks here.

I'm a new owner of a pre-64 Model 94 .30-30. It's in great shape with lots of blue left on the receiver along with some scratches, and looks new from a few feet away. 1952 manufacture from the serial#.

Can anyone here tell me about a wear mark I see at the top edge of the breech opening--it's the worn bottom edge of the slot the extractor hook fits into when it grabs the cartridge rim.  It seems to wear on the breech edge at the lowest part of this extractor slot. It's a little shiny on that spot and worn slightly into the breech metal so that edge of the breech would support the cartridge rim a little less than the rest of the circumference of the breech rim.

Is this normal wear? Any concern that the breech is compromised? Any adjustment I need to do to the extractor/ejector to reduce or prevent this?

Bought the rifle as a shooter for somewhat less than a new 94, because it was in such great shape for a pre-64. Just want to know whether it's ok as a shooter.

[John Traveler]

STW,

Hi again!  we will have to stop meeting like this.  People will talk!

That shiney spot you noticed where the 94 extractor hook touches the barrel breech notch is nothing to worry about.  It is normal wear because the extractor hook is springy and intended to snap over the cartridge rim to engage.  Usually only a bit of blue is gone.

On the other hand, if it is a replacement extractor, it might need a bit of stoning or polishing to fit properly.  A close examination should show if it is necessary.  Is the "shiny" place smooth and even, or does it show recent impact marks from working the lever action?  Does the extractor pull fired cases out reliably?

That pre-1964 rifle should be a real treasure.  Please keep it original and pretty. :shock:

[Mikey]

STW:  Me again.  I've got a pre-64 94 in 30-30 that was made in 1923 and it has the same mark.  I also have a 94 Big Bore with the same mark.  It comes from the extractor rubbing on that part of the extractor groove as the extractor slides up and over the cartridge rim.  My gunsmith says that is normal and nothing to worry about.  Hope this helps.  Mikey.