Not so much headspace but rather the stipping of the bolt.
I can't seem to get the pin for the extractor plunger driven out of the bolt I am working on.
What would the difference be if I checked the headspace with the plunger and the extractor still in place??????

The removal of the extractor etc before doing a head space check allows you to "feel" the bolt engagement with some sensitivity.
It is not mandatory though.
Most head space gages are ground steel and some even have cut-outs for the extractor or extraction plunger.
If you are using a set of just go and no-go gages, you can try without removing the extractor. Just be careful not to force the no-go gage.

They are the type with a extractor groove in it.
I am just concerned because all I have read on the subject says to remove the plunger and extractor.

quote:

Most head space gages are ground steel and some even have cut-outs for the extractor or extraction plunger.

Well since we're revisiting headspace, let's include correct terminology. The extractor pulls the case from the chamber and the "ejector" 86's it.

White Eagle, you didn't say which gun it was you were wanting to check the headspace on, but what little I've read on this thread, I'm assuming you are referring to the "ejector", which is spring loaded.

There are several manufacturers who use spring loaded, bolt nose "ejectors". Some retaining pins are "direction specific" because of the splayed end which acts to anchor the pin firmly in the hole.

You may need a magnifying lens and a good light to see which end is larger. The pin is driven out that side.

Thanks for the heads up
I am working on a push feed winchester model 70
I did notice that one side of the pin is set in a bit and the other is flush
I already broke one punch on it but I may buy another and try it again
Do you happen to know which is which as far as direction ?
thanks

Spray a little something in the pin hole to loosen things up. The push feed M70 I have here has a roll pin holding the ejector and can go either way.

When removing the ejector from Remingtons, I drive that pin from the top down, on the Winchesters, I turn it over and drive it out from the bottom. I don't know why, but it works for me.