Tikka T3X Failure to Fire

[Rugger7622]

Can I do as suggested and change firing pins from another Tikka action to test?

 

[Dan Carey]

You can, but if there is a slight problem with the bolt it may do the same thing. A new set will insure full power from the spring and a nice new pin with no wear.
Nobody wants a rifle that doesn't shoot when you want it to. Frustration is the road to depression which leads to selling the rifle just like the other guy did.

 

[Rugger7622]

Ok, where the best place to get a new pin and spring?

 

[Dan Carey]

Try these guys, ask them about the failure to fire also.

Mountain Tactical Company

Upgrade your Tikka rifle with precision-engineered parts from Mountain Tactical. Explore high-performance accessories for Tikka T3, T3x, and T1x — including scope mounts, chassis systems, bolt handles, and more. Designed for accuracy, durability, and the serious shooter.

mountaintactical.com

 

[Castle Rock]

Can I do as suggested and change firing pins from another Tikka action to test?

Yes.
Have you ever pierced a primer, often a small disc of metal will blow out and get stuck inside the bolt body and hang up where the firing pin channel tapers

 

[Rugger7622]

I’ve not pierced a primer

 

[Rugger7622]

I measured the firing pin protrusion at .066.

 

[Dan Carey]

Nothing wrong with that. Maybe just a new spring.

 

[Lawnboi]

Post a picture of your bolt face again with better resolution.

If that is etching of the bolt it’s indicative that some primers have been blown.

Might as well post the rest of your setup as well.

Tikkas are susceptible to light strikes if the bolt isn’t down entirely. Even if you lightly bump it and it appears to be down, releasing the firing pin is going to push it down, converting some of its energy to get the bolt fully engaged.

 

[Rugger7622]

Here are some more pictures. With my nail, the bolt face feels smooth

 

[Castle Rock]

It appears from those photos that your bolt handle is touching the stock, is that the case?

 

[Dan Carey]

You may have found the problem if the bolt handle is touching, see if you can slip a piece of paper under the handle while pushing down on the bolt.

 

[mtnbound]

Can I do as suggested and change firing pins from another Tikka action to test?

I would swap them and if you have the same issue then the bolt would be the thing in common.

 

[Rugger7622]

It appears from those photos that your bolt handle is touching the stock, is that the case?

I'll check and report back. This is the only stock, I've ever shot the action in. That could make sense, since the previous owner said he never had a FTF and I zero reason to not believe him.

 

[Lawnboi]

I’d guess it’s that bolt handle contacting the stock. Some small files and black paint can fix that easy. If you have a factory bolt handle that’s also worth a try

 

[Jordan Smith]

It appears from those photos that your bolt handle is touching the stock, is that the case?

Bingo. I’ve had that problem with aftermarket bolt handles on Tikkas, requiring relieving the stock bolt notch a bit.

Hold up a flashlight to it and see if you can see daylight everywhere between the bolt handle and stock while pushing down on the bolt handle.

 

[Rugger7622]

It's a factory handle with an add on knob, I had a rubber ball one on there when I shot factory. I'm not home right now, but I'm curious if this is the issue - I sure hope it is - easy fix

 

[Rugger7622]

The bolt isn’t touching, I can get a folded piece of paper all the way under it - dang it

 

[Dan Carey]

Back to replacing the firing pin spring. BTW thats a nice looking stock on your rifle.