Why do the new M70's have this plug below the bolt?

Covers a cross bolt.

Interesting that it doesn't appear on the other side also.

Not especially.

New? They started doing that in 1957. Should be on bolt sides.

If it doesn't appear on the other side it is likely a high tensile screw used to re-enforce the thin stock web in that area. I've done some Mausers that way that didn't employ a crossbolt behind the front guard screw. I used black epoxy to cover the heads.

quote:

Originally posted by Blacktailer:
Interesting that it doesn't appear on the other side also.

quote:

Originally posted by dpcd:
New? They started doing that in 1957. Should be on bolt sides.

Yes my P64 375 has 2 and they show heads on both sides but the new ones (at least the medium bores) only show a plug on 1 side.

quote:

Originally posted by Chuck Nelson:
Not especially.

Thanks so much for your insightful input. Keep up the good work.

I have seen original pre 64 mod 70 Africans with the plug on one side. It is a cheaper way of reinforcing, basically a heavy duty wood screw from one side and then cover the head.

quote:

Originally posted by craigster:

quote:

Originally posted by Chuck Nelson:
Not especially.

Thanks so much for your insightful input. Keep up the good work.

I will thanks.