[Tom-M]

Before I do something stupid - thought I ask someone who has actually done it.

I am replaceing a 1903 bolt that won't headspace. I need to take the extractor off the old one, and put it on the new bolt. Any advice on the best way to do this? Hopefully the new one will head space afterwards.

Thanks - Tom

 

[Rick the Librarian2]

I use a screwdriver (flathead) to bend the forward end up slightly, then tap it off from the rear.

 

[RH Scott]

You can also twist it to the right so it pops out of the track then tap from the rear to get it off.
Squeeze the band to put on the new bolt in reverse order.

BTW.. avoid removing the band/collar from either bolt as they can bend real easy and then can bind your action.

 

[Youngblood]

You will notice that right behind the extractor "claw" there is a ridge that rides in a groove on the bolt. You will also notice that the groove does not extend all the way around the bolt body ... it is missing on the bottom.

Rotate the extractor to the bottom of the bolt body so that it is out of that groove and then tap it forward off from the rear.