Reader Forum

Winchester Model 50 A customer dropped off a Model 50 Winchester 20 gauge shotgun that is not feeding shotshells. The carrier does not move when cycling the bolt manually either. The carrier will move up with the finger pressure with the bolt release button depressed. The only reference source I have on this shotgun is from the NRA’s Firearms Assembly books. While they go into great detail on the history of this firearm there aren’t any trouble shooting guidelines.

Dean Cascio Overall the shotgun is in excellent condition and clean. The only part in the schematic that I can figure may be the problem is what they call the pawl that is pinned to the carrier. While it shows minor wear, it isn’t beat up and shows no sign of modification. Anew part is not available. I have checked several sources. If necessary I can TIG weld and reshade. However, I am not sure how the pawl is supposed to engage the bottom of the bolt.

Do you know of anyone who is knowledgeable about these shotguns and could advise which way to go with this problem? Bob Cogan Accurate Plating & Weaponry If there’s no revelation provided in Brownells Encyclopedia Of Modern Firearms, contact Nu-Line Guns (Nu- LineGuns.com, and ask for Jerry Stevens. Nu Line may also have the part. AR-15 Barrel Nut I understand the barrel nut tightens up against the lip on the barrel extension. The barrel can only be loose if the barrel nut is loose.

Does the barrel loosen in the pocket of the receiver after multiple firings? I have not seen this looseness on any of my barrels that I have installed and I would have to think this would be a common install practice if this is such a problem. Please explain. Bruce Finley Author Joe Carlos responds. The way you describe the barrel nut pushing back against the barrel extension, forcing it into contact with the upper receiver, is true.

However, we are not trying to stop front-to-back movement of the extension inside the receiver, we are trying to prevent side-to-side and up-and-down movement. You can see this movement as you assemble any Stoner rifle. Slide the barrel extension into the upper receiver until it stops, then hold the barrel in one hand and the receiver in the other and apply leftto-right and up-and-down forces. You will see and feel the wiggle. Thin shim stock held in place with green Loctite helps eliminate this movement.

Properly-fitted BAT Machine match barrel extensions will also remove this movement. Either method will reduce group size an average of about 1/3, which is very substantial. I suggest that you read the first article I ever wrote for this magazine, "Barrel Extension Diameter And Accuracy In The AR-15" (March-April 2013.). There is a story related in that article about how we discovered the amount of movement between the extension and the upper receiver in assembled uppers.

If you can’t locate a copy of articles back that far in history or have any other questions, email me at G