73 bolt question.

[Grizzly Adams]

Today, while cleaning my Uberti 73, I noticed that the rim support tab on the bottom of the bolt face is broken off!  I have no idea how long it has been that way, and it has not malfunctioned on me.  However, I know that it is only a matter of time, as it will drip the round off of the extractor when working the action slowly.

My question is will the new bolt assembly found in the newer Uberti 73 retro fit to the older version?  I know I can have the current one welded up, but the new set up is stronger and might be worth the cost of the change.   Any experience with this?  Recommendations?

Thanks,

GA

[Pettifogger]

If you have the old bolt with the small diameter pin holding in the bolt extension the new parts will fit.  Just make sure you buy all the parts.  You need the bolt, a new bolt extension and the stop.

http://www.vtigunparts.com/store/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=42&cat=Uberti+1873+Rifle

[John Taylor]

Why not find someone with a TIG torch and weld it. I have done several original by welding and they work good.

[Grizzly Adams]

Thanks, Pettifogger.   I appreciate the reply, and the information.  I think I'll convert it to the newer bolt.

Hi, John Taylor.  I thought about having it welded up - I have an original Win 1873 bolt that was so repaired, and it works fine.  The advantage of the new Uberti bolt is in terms of strength.  It's actually close to the original Winchester set up.

[The Swede]

I have a Chaparral 1873 in .44-40 that is missing the rim support (came that way). Bought it from Marstar Canada, and they have a good warranty. My question is what exactly does it do (the rim support I mean)? I have been able to load and fire cartridges, but no where near as smooth as I would like. Marstar is looking into the problem for me right now.

[John Taylor]

That little piece hold the cartridge up so the extractor won't let go till it's time. Without it sometimes the cartridge will not clear the chamber all the way and the carrier will hit the cartridge and not go all the way up, or it just will not eject.

[The Swede]

That little piece hold the cartridge up so the extractor won't let go till it's time. Without it sometimes the cartridge will not clear the chamber all the way and the carrier will hit the cartridge and not go all the way up, or it just will not eject.

Thank you for the quick response! My rifle seemed to have no problems ejecting spent casings. Marstar Canada is looking into my problem right now.

[Coffinmaker]

I've been out of the loop for a bit but thought I'd throw my 3 cents in anyway, especially for the Swede.
The rim suppoer tab is very important to the function of the rifle and when missing the gun isn't going to run right.  For the Chaparral guns, there are no guns/parts available in the US right now.  No one will import their stuff.  It is /was crap.  The bolt for the Chaparral that is missing the lower guide tab needs to be welded up and re-formed.  Historically, replacement parts from Chaparral are worse than the original "bad" parts.  Save time and money by having the existing breach block repaired.

For Grizzly .... I really consider upgrading the Breach Block and Firing Pin extension assembly to be a "good thing" in the older guns with the little skinny cross pin that retains the extension rod.  An out of battery discharge can be a disaster in those guns.  There will be some fitting, rubbin and buffin, but the result is worth the investment of time and money just from a safety standpoint.  VTI gunparts actually sells the upgrade as a complete "kit" with all the necessary parts.  It ain't cheap, but is essential insurance in my book.

Coffinmaker

[Grizzly Adams]

For Grizzly .... I really consider upgrading the Breach Block and Firing Pin extension assembly to be a "good thing" in the older guns with the little skinny cross pin that retains the extension rod.  An out of battery discharge can be a disaster in those guns.  There will be some fitting, rubbin and buffin, but the result is worth the investment of time and money just from a safety standpoint.  VTI gunparts actually sells the upgrade as a complete "kit" with all the necessary parts.  It ain't cheap, but is essential insurance in my book.

Coffinmaker

Thanks for the info, Coffinmaker.   I am going to up grade to the new set up.  Glad your back in the saddle!

[The Swede]

I've been out of the loop for a bit but thought I'd throw my 3 cents in anyway, especially for the Swede.
The rim suppoer tab is very important to the function of the rifle and when missing the gun isn't going to run right.  For the Chaparral guns, there are no guns/parts available in the US right now.  No one will import their stuff.  It is /was crap.  The bolt for the Chaparral that is missing the lower guide tab needs to be welded up and re-formed.  Historically, replacement parts from Chaparral are worse than the original "bad" parts.  Save time and money by having the existing breach block repaired.

Coffinmaker

Marstar Canada sells Chaparral here in Canada. They are sending me a new bolt. They actually have parts, and a great warranty to boot! I heard that the problem experienced in the US had to do with Chaparrals assembled in the US. I could be wrong of course, but from what I have heard the Chaparrals here in Canada are actually pretty good. I know a few guys who have had problems with Uberti's....

The Swede

[The Swede]

Historically, replacement parts from Chaparral are worse than the original "bad" parts.  Save time and money by having the existing breach block repaired.

Coffinmaker

When I get the bolt I will see if it is better than what i already have. I will decide on repairing (or not) when I get the new bolt. Thanks for the advice... I do appreciate it!

The Swede