Oversize Fireing Pin Hole ?

[The Duke]

Posted: Today at 11:47 am  Post subject:  Oversize Firing Pin Hole?  

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
I have a Finn Model 39 Mosin Nagant  in excellant condition. Headspace checks out OK. My problem is, any factory loads fired in it (including Wolf, S&B, etc) show primer flow into the firing pin hole of the bolthead. When I handload, starting loads look OK. As I work them up, I get primer flow as I approach maximum loads. Compared to other Milsurp rifles that I have (Mausers...German, Swedes) the fit of the firing pin to the hole in the bolthead is sloppy. I have tried different bolt heads to get a better fit, but generally it is still a problem. Does anyone know of a gunsmith who can bush the firing pin hole? Or is my best bet to have an oversize firing pin fabricated? Any recommendation on the type of steel to use if I go this route.  Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[gunnut69]

I wonder how hot those loads really are but if its' flowing primer with factory and headspace checks OK than it may simply be a loose fit between firing pin tip and bolt face hole.  A good smith can weld the hole shut, drill a new one, smaller of course and fit the existing pin to the new smaller hole.  Welding a bolt face is not to be undertaken lightly but is do able.. The smaller tighter fitting pin will eliminate primer flow.

[The Duke]

Thanks Gunnut.  Any suggestions on a competent gunsmith?  As you say, I would be real concerned that the right precautions were taken to keep excess heat off of the lugs.