The Accurate Reloading Forums
headspace

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25 March 2002, 20:55
shortshot
headspace
How do you correct headspace on a Winchester model 94? This rifle worked fine for many years of shooting, now it missfires quite regularly. The action closes on no-go guage with extra shims added to the guage.
25 March 2002, 23:53
<Don G>
Have it rebarrelled by a gunsmith who does the lever guns. It's not safe to shoot like it is.

Don

26 March 2002, 05:33
Stonecreek
There are ways that you could custom-load for this rifle, but it would be trouble to do, involving setting it up to headspace on the shoulder.

I don't know if a skilled gunsmith could set the barrel back, since the magazine tube has to hang on the barrel, but it's possible. If so, you might be able to reuse your current barrel rather than buy a new one.

26 March 2002, 06:35
<Bruce Gordon>
Think COST here.
Unless it is a pretty special 30-30, it will cost about as much to rebarrel as it costs to buy another one.
26 March 2002, 06:45
Headache
swarbrick,
I would give Winchester (USRAC) a call. They have different thickness locking bolts. This is how they set headspace at the factory. They may be able to salvage your rifle without rebarreling.
Headache
26 March 2002, 09:17
shortshot
I had been through all the scenarios you mention but with no cure for the problem. I even measured a couple of locking bolts but found them to be the same size so was confused as to how Winchester set the headspace. A variety of different size locking bolts is what I was looking for. I'll give Winchester a call. This should probably be checked before rebarrelling any Winchester lever action as the firearm design does not allow for the barrel to protrude past the reciever ring. Thanks for all the info.