Bolt play?

[BRrooster]

I may have a bit of a problem. I have my Rem 700SPS stainless 7-08, stripped down to do some trigger adj, and closing the bolt , I noticed some play in the bolt position. With the bolt closed, there is play forward and back towards the chamber. I can actually get a measurement of .020 with an old feeler style
gauge, between the forward part of the bolt handle and the bolt handle slot
in the action. With a dummie cartridge chambered there is no play.
This isnt normal is it? I have only had the rifle for a couple of months and not shot more than 50 reloads thru it. The brass has been used maybe 3 times, and not with overly hot loads.
thanks
bruce

 

[Lefty7mmstw]

normal, yep, as long as she's fine when the round's in. All my remmy's have a bit of play when empty.

 

[7stw]

normal, yep, as long as she's fine when the round's in. All my remmy's have a bit of play when empty.

Yup, +1, " what he said" .

 

[brentc]

If you think there's a lot of play with Rem, you should feel a Savage sometime. The important part is whether or not the lugs are square when the bolt closes.