I just saw a Sako 30-06 Deluxe in the 514XXX serial number range with a pin protruding from the left side of the bolt collar. The pin is about 3/16" diameter and about 1/4" long. I thought it was something done by a gunsmith till I just saw another one advertised on Gun Broker #378287192. The post is clearly visible in the photos. Can anyone shed any light on just what this was for?

About 1974 Sako made a slight change in the way the bolt is held against the torque of raising the bolt handle. The pin is merely pressed into the side of the bolt shroud and bears against the receiver as the bolt is rotated. There have been a very few anecdotal reports of these pins coming loose and falling out, but it is a rare occurrence. Rest assured that it is fully factory and there are many more like it.