Go gauges. No go gauges. Field gauges

[Alpha1]

I have had a measure the .303 field gauge is normally .074" this one I have here from Forster is .070". It is probably made to SAMMI spec. I now know the .303 is not made to SAMMI spec. I should of done my home work before ordering. But having been able to have a look at a headspace gauge close up. I believe I can make a copy of the Forster gauge I have purchased and machine it to the correct dimensions so all is not lost. Hmm except I need to get my lathe working again first up. Oh poo.
Plan B then. I stuck a bit of electricians tape on the end of the gauge this took it to .075". Ill let you know how I get on.

[Alpha1]

I had another go this time with the extractor firing pin a spring removed. The bolt does not fully close on the gauge even with no tape on the gauge. So MrD is correct it does make a difference using the gauge with out the firing pin and spring in situ. Thank you MrD for the emails and your good advice. I don't know now whether to make another gauge or stick the electricians tape back on this one.
Oh and of course not forgetting the rifle I'm happy now that I know its fine and I don't need a bolt head after all.
Just need to reassemble it.

[MrD]

Happy to help, and even happier to hear your rifle is good to go

[Alpha1]

I had a look on the guys web site that makes the disc type of gauges. I actually think it would be easier to machine a gauge similar to the Forster one. I'm fairly confident I could machine one up to the right dimensions. I will run it past the guys at work to morrow and see if we can work some thing out.

I am also going to do a run of .303 and P14 bolt dismantling tools.

[Rockhopper]

I'd be interested in the bolt tools for my No4 and my SMLE. I have a set of gauges but I've realised they are not much use due to the cock on closing type action.

[ovenpaa]

The .303 firing pin removal tool is well documented and very easy to make, not sure what you mean by the P14 tool unless you mean a de-cocker?

[Alpha1]

I have made quite a few .303 firing pin removal tools. All my shooting buddies have one in there bag.
The P14 is the C washer used for dismantling the bolt.
That's if I ever manage to get the bolt out of the rifle. It's proving to be a bit of a challenge at the moment.

[Robert303]

Get over to the Lee Enfield forum on milsurps.com and search the threads on Go / No Go also pay attention to what Peter Laidler says, he is an ex Army armourer who worked his way up from apprentice to Captain and is regarded as 'God' when it comes to fixing Lee Enfields. He can even repair No32 scopes.

[Alpha1]

Get over to the Lee Enfield forum on milsurps.com and search the threads on Go / No Go also pay attention to what Peter Laidler says, he is an ex Army armourer who worked his way up from apprentice to Captain and is regarded as 'God' when it comes to fixing Lee Enfields. He can even repair No32 scopes.

Thanks for the info but I am sorted now just took a couple of hours in the machine shop.

[Robert303]

@Alpha.
Glad you are sorted out but would still suggest you look at the forum on milsurps, there are even copies of the original armourers instructions and notes on it.