Locked up receiver

[stumped]

My 223 receiver is locked up. I was out coyote hunting and when I got back to my truck to unload my receiver would not open. I shot the gun after it wouldnt open, so now it has a empty case in it. I was going to push out the pins and take the receiver apart but figured I would ask you guys if you know what it might be and how to fix it.   

[quickdtoo]

I've had one of the roll pins in the underlug back out and keep it from opening, but not just lock up completely. Sounds like  problem in the trigger group/barrel release lever.

Tim

[stumped]

How do I get into the receiver and look at the release lever? Do I have to take it all apart or can I only take certain pins out, because I cant get the barrel off if it won't release?

[quickdtoo]

That's the only way I know of, if you haven't read them yet, check out the trigger hone info in the FAQs to learn how to R&R the frame parts, might as well do a trigger job whilst in there. 

Tim

[trotterlg]

You don't say whether the release lever moves or not.  The latch pivots on the second pin down from the top.  Larry

[30063030223357]

I have a 357 Mag. reamed to a 357 Max. ,and the same thing happened twice while deer hunting last season in Pa..It was colder weather, under 30 degrees. Put it in the basement for a few hours to warm up and it opened right up? I don't know the cause, but any suggestions would be appreciated. Was this the same situation for you? cold weather.

[ELMO]

 I have had it happen to me because it was pretty fouled up in the breech area. I had to use some force to make it break open. Held down on release lever and finally opened it  across my knee. All I can say is give that a try.....