Remington Model 700 action Question

[jammerone]

Just bought a model .223 Remington 700, and am experiencing an issue with the bolt. I am more of a shotgun guy than a rifle, own two other Model 700, and love them. The bolt on the .223 works great with no ammo in it, but as soon as I put in a shell, it is almost impossiple to close the handle down. Anyone else ever experience this? I have used several maunfacuters ammo, Federal remington, Black Hills and it all is the same. Any ideas what I should do? I have shot less than 30 rounds thruy the unit. Should I just try to return or take to a gunsmith and have it workied?
Thanks

[James in NC]

To me it sounds like the headspace is off. If you have tried several other brands of ammo and it still does it I'd return it or have a smith take a look at it. A headspace gauge will tell the tale in a minute.

[gunnut69]

Does the rifle shave any brass from the case? When you say it's hard to turn, how hard? It could be a headspace issue, it could also be a problem with the extractor. Remove the bolt from the action and using a pencil or wood dowel move the extractor in the bolt face. It should move fairly easily. Is this a new rifle or a used one. If used perhaps some prior owner did something to caause the problem. If new and the extractor is easy to move and there are no brass marks on the bolt face or shavings in the bolt face, a call to Remington is in order..