I saw a pre 64 winchester model 70 1960 built that had a rear bolt that didnt go but about maybe half way into the action and when i took it out to inspect it had red thread goop built up on purpose to keep the bolt from going any further,The rifle is suppose to be bedded and i saw no reason to pull it apart.Is this acceptable or should the bolt be replaced? Also how long should the rear bolt measure?This one measured 1 1/2 inches....All the pre 64 rifles i have looked at had the rear screw head flush with the tang.What would be the reasoning behind this?Rear pressure on the tang area?

The PRE 64 bow screws had machined threads and never had any thread locker on them.

Some time in the early 70,s Winchester went to a rolled thread screw and sprayed on thread locker.

In the mid 80,s when they started the meduim action, Winchester blinded the rear screw on the reciever. This shortened the rear screw to the same length as the front bow screw.
SO Winchester changed the head on it to match the rear and only made the rear screws and the hinge plate screw.

On your gun someone has put in a new screw at one point. Do not worry about it unless the gap bothers you, if so then replace it.
Otherwise shoot and enjoy the rilfe.

Jim Wisner
Custom Metalsmith

Thanks Jim!