I have a M700 short action in a custom stock. When the trigger is pulled the bolt handle pops up about a degree, with or without a case in the chamber. There is ample clearance between the bolt handle and the stock. Is this a problem? Is it typcal of many rifle designs?

I've dissasembled a number of bolt assemblies, but I don't think I really understand the concept of bolt timing. Would someone be so kind as to reduce my ignorance a bit?

It is typical in factory produced guns. The problem is due to the cocking notch not being in perfect alignment with it's groove in the receiver, causing to bolt to jump as the cocking piece moves forward, slightly off center. There are fairly simple ways to correct this, but, it doesn't generally pose much of a problem with sporting arms.

Westpac,
Thanks for the explanation.
Brice