One of my favorite rifles is a custom Ruger #2. For those unfamiliar, a Ruger #2 is a #3 that has been upgraded with #1 wood. Just in case anyone was wondering, when I originally bought the #3, it already had been rebarreled & modified, thus nullifying any collector value. I’ve always noticed that the firing pin strikes on the primers were off-center. Not a big deal since it doesn’t seem to effect the function, reliability or accuracy. But as of late, I’ve been developing some new loads & I started experimenting with indexing the cartridge in the chamber. I noticed that the primer indent was always low relative to the vertical centerline. Either the breech block is drilled low or the block is not being raised high enough when the action is closed. A call to Ruger was not very helpful since the rifle is not original & they no longer support #3’s. Their only recommendation was to try factory ammo. Duh! They did verify that the breech blocks & mechanisms were identical for #3’s & #1’s. You can click on pictures below for an expanded view.
So here’s my question for Ruger #1/#3 mechanics. Are there any parts or wear areas in the mechanism that could cause the action to close .006 too high?
As always, TIA for any comments or suggestions.
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