Early 60's action for 338 Edge build?

[sxwatson]

I picked up a 7mm mag barreled action for cheap and I had planned on using it for a 338 Edge build.

Took off the scope bases today and noticed that there is a notch in the top of the back of the action. Two questions.

1. Why did they cut out this area at the top of the action?
2. Is this OK to use for a custom build? Will accuracy suffer using an action like this?

Here is a picture for reference: (This isn't mine, just a picture I found online)

 

[Gene Jr.]

My old Rem 721 has the same cut out. I am under the impression it was for loading it with stripper clips although I've never seen it done.

I can't see why it would be a problem for your build. The strength is in the front ring. I'd check with the smith you plan on using just to make sure they don't have a problem with it.

 

[royinidaho]

Why the notch? I have no idea.

I have a 270 Allen Mag on that action.

Proceed with confidence.

 

[shortgrass]

That is a usable action. Cut was for long cartridges, not stripper (stipper clip guides always have a 'detail', like a dovetail for example, to hold them in place for use. Take a look at a Springfield '03 or Mauser '98 for good examples). The cut, in reality, was not needed and was eliminated to help save production costs. Otherwise, it's a standard 700 action.

 

[sxwatson]

Good deal. I appreciate the feedback.

 

[J E Custom]

That is a usable action. Cut was for long cartridges, not stripper (stipper clip guides always have a 'detail', like a dovetail for example, to hold them in place for use. Take a look at a Springfield '03 or Mauser '98 for good examples). The cut, in reality, was not needed and was eliminated to help save production costs. Otherwise, it's a standard 700 action.

+1

It was handy as long as you didn't put a scope on it and most people shot iron sites
back then.

J E CUSTOM

 

[royinidaho]

+1

It was handy as long as you didn't put a scope on it and most people shot iron sites
back then.

J E CUSTOM

What would be the problem w/a scope on it?

 

[J E Custom]

What would be the problem w/a scope on it?

It just wouldn't be as handy/accessible and the standard port was short so when loading
the longest cartriges they had to be loaded case head first.

Also back then most of the bases were one piece.

J E CUSTOM

 

[nz4x4]

The only other thing that i think is worth mentioning is:

On the early actions there is no groove on the left locking lug to help the bolt from moving excessively when cycling the bolt. Which isn't a big deal unless you have an extremely strange way of closing the bolt (i.e. lots of upwards pressure on the bolt handle)

My edge is built on a 1968 action without the groove and its fine.