Delving into Feed and Extraction Concerns
Failure to Feed
A failure to feed occurs when a fresh cartridge fails to move from the magazine into the chamber. This can manifest as the bolt failing to pick up the round, or the round getting stuck before fully entering the chamber. Several factors contribute to this common issue.
A weakened or damaged magazine spring can diminish the upward force necessary to push rounds effectively towards the chamber. Years of use can take their toll, leading to a loss of tension in the spring. In addition, magazine lips that have been bent, worn, or damaged can fail to properly align and retain the cartridges, resulting in feeding difficulties. A dirty or damaged magazine, clogged with debris or obstructed by rust, can also prevent smooth operation. Furthermore, the wrong type or length of ammunition might cause jamming. Ensure that you’re using the correct ammunition for your rifle’s chambering and that the cartridge overall length (COL) is within acceptable specifications.
Addressing these problems is often straightforward. Replacing the magazine spring with a new, high-quality part can revitalize the magazine’s feeding capabilities. Inspection of the magazine lips and repairing or replacing a damaged magazine is often necessary. Keeping the magazine clean and free from obstructions is also a key part of maintenance. Regular cleaning and inspecting your magazine for any signs of wear or damage are crucial preventative steps.
Failure to Extract
Another frustrating problem involves the inability of the rifle to remove the spent cartridge casing from the chamber after firing. This failure to extract leaves the spent casing trapped in the chamber, rendering the rifle inoperable until the obstruction is resolved.
This type of issue is often caused by a dirty chamber. Powder residue, carbon buildup, and other contaminants can create friction, hindering the extraction process. A weakened or worn extractor, the component that grips the cartridge rim to pull it from the chamber, can also be a significant culprit. The extractor spring, which provides the necessary force to hold the extractor in place, can weaken over time or break completely, leading to extractor failure. Damage to the extractor itself, whether through impact or wear, can compromise its ability to grip the cartridge rim. Finally, corrosion or rust within the chamber, particularly in humid environments or when proper cleaning protocols are not followed, can create significant resistance, making extraction difficult.
Proper solutions start with diligent cleaning of the chamber. Using a chamber brush and appropriate solvent to remove fouling and buildup is essential. Inspecting the extractor and replacing a worn or damaged extractor is also essential. Examine the extractor spring and ensure that it has adequate tension; replace it if it’s weak or damaged. Consider having a qualified gunsmith polish the chamber to help smooth out any imperfections, which will reduce friction and improve extraction reliability.
Failure to Eject
When the spent casing fails to leave the rifle, it also indicates a potentially serious Remington 760 Gamemaster problem. This usually happens after the spent casing is extracted from the chamber, but it does not get fully ejected from the rifle.
Weak or broken ejector springs will not allow the cartridge casing to forcefully push out of the chamber. Damages to the ejector itself, which is designed to eject the casing from the rifle, can cause ejection problems. A dirty chamber can cause the spent casing to stick. Furthermore, using underpowered ammunition can lead to insufficient pressure to cycle the action and properly eject the spent casing.
To address this, replace the ejector spring if necessary. If the ejector is damaged, replace it to ensure optimal functioning. Regular cleaning of the chamber can help prevent spent casings from sticking to the chamber walls. Make sure to use ammunition appropriate for your rifle.
Troubleshooting Pump Action Difficulties
Sticking or Binding Pump
A pump action that sticks or binds is a frustrating malfunction, severely limiting the ability to quickly cycle the action. This issue typically arises from a combination of factors.
A buildup of dirt, carbon residue, or dried lubricants within the action can create friction and impede the smooth movement of the pump. Rust, if present, can further exacerbate the problem by creating a rough surface and seizing moving parts. The action bars, which connect the forend to the bolt, can become worn or damaged, leading to binding. If the action bar grooves, which guide the action bars, are damaged or clogged with debris, the movement can be restricted. Lastly, damage to the forend, such as cracks or warping, can affect its ability to function correctly and cause the action to stick.
The remedy lies in addressing the source. Thorough cleaning and lubrication are essential. Removing the old grease and other substances and re-lubricating all moving parts with a quality gun oil will resolve many issues. Inspecting the action bars for wear or damage is also important, as is the inspection of the action bar grooves. Addressing any rust immediately to prevent its progression is vital. Examine the forend for damage and replace it if necessary.
Loose Pump
A loose pump can detract from the rifle’s feel and potentially impact its accuracy. This usually indicates that one or more components are worn, or assembly may be incorrect.
Worn or damaged pump parts, such as the action bars or the forend, can cause play and looseness. A loose forend may fail to secure the pump mechanism properly, also causing this. Incorrect assembly, where parts are not properly aligned or secured, can also contribute.
To solve this problem, examine the pump’s component parts for wear or damage and replace them accordingly. If the forend is loose, try to tighten it or replace it if necessary. Carefully follow the assembly instructions, and ensure that all parts are properly seated and secured.
Accuracy Issues to Consider
Inconsistent Grouping
If groups of shots are not consistently tight, various issues may cause this.
Loose barrel attachment can lead to erratic shots as the barrel moves during firing. If the barrel comes into contact with the forend, this could cause accuracy issues. In addition, the scope (if fitted) can contribute to inconsistent grouping due to loose mounts or internal optical problems. Also, choosing the wrong ammunition for the rifle can impact the accuracy of the shots. In addition, excessive fouling in the barrel or wear to the crown can lead to inaccuracies.
Tighten the barrel to ensure that the barrel is securely fastened to the receiver. Check for clearance between the barrel and the forend. Properly mount a scope and ensure it is firmly installed and functioning correctly. Experiment with different ammunition types to find the best fit for the rifle. Clean the barrel thoroughly and inspect the crown for any damage.
Zero Shift
The point of impact of shots can shift over time, or after taking the rifle apart and putting it back together, which can be another type of Remington 760 Gamemaster problem.
Loose scope mounts may cause this issue. Looseness in the barrel itself can also lead to this problem. Improper torqueing, or incorrect assembly of action screws, can cause changes in the point of impact.
The solution is to re-tighten the scope mounts, and re-check them to be sure. Carefully inspect the barrel for any movement and tighten it accordingly. Ensure proper torqueing of all action screws.
Addressing Trigger-Related Issues
Heavy Trigger Pull
A heavy trigger pull can make it difficult to shoot accurately.
A dirty trigger mechanism can cause excessive resistance, leading to a heavy trigger pull. Worn trigger parts such as the sear or trigger spring can also be factors.
Clean the trigger mechanism, use the proper gun cleaning products, and carefully follow the cleaning instructions. If the trigger mechanism does not respond to cleaning, consider replacing any worn trigger parts.
Creep
This occurs when the trigger has excessive travel before the shot breaks.
A dirty trigger mechanism can lead to creep. Worn trigger parts, especially the sear, can also allow excessive trigger travel.
Clean the trigger mechanism thoroughly. Replace worn trigger parts as necessary.
Maintenance and Prevention for a Reliable Rifle
Preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your Remington 760 Gamemaster in top condition and minimizing the likelihood of Remington 760 Gamemaster problems. Implementing a consistent maintenance schedule will help prolong the rifle’s lifespan and ensure its reliable performance.
Regular Cleaning and Lubrication
Thorough cleaning and proper lubrication are the cornerstones of any firearm maintenance routine. Disassembly, cleaning, and lubrication of all parts is essential. The frequency of cleaning depends on usage; however, cleaning after each shooting session, or at least after every hunting trip, is a good practice.
Use quality gun cleaning solvents to remove powder residue, copper fouling, and other contaminants from the barrel, action, and other components. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the cleaning products and ensure that they are suitable for the type of metal used. Properly lubricate all moving parts with a gun oil or grease designed for firearms. A light coat of oil will prevent rust and keep the action running smoothly.
Ammunition Selection
Always use the correct ammunition for the specific chambering of your rifle. Use ammunition that matches the rifle’s specifications. The use of incorrect ammunition can lead to malfunctions, damage the rifle, and potentially cause serious injury.
Storage
Store your Remington 760 Gamemaster in a clean, dry location away from extreme temperatures and humidity. The proper storage environment will prevent rust and corrosion. Consider using a gun safe or lockable gun case to protect your firearm from unauthorized access. Regular inspection of the rifle while in storage can prevent problems from developing.
Part Replacement
Over time, certain parts of the Remington 760 Gamemaster may wear out or become damaged due to normal use. Knowing when and how to replace these parts is essential for maintaining the rifle’s reliability and safety. Inspect the rifle regularly for wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged springs, extractors, ejectors, and other components promptly.
Professional Gunsmithing
While many maintenance tasks can be performed by the owner, complex repairs or major overhauls should be left to a qualified gunsmith. If you are experiencing persistent problems, or if you are not comfortable with a specific repair, consult a professional. A gunsmith has the skills and experience to diagnose and fix a wide range of Remington 760 Gamemaster problems.
Troubleshooting Guide: Quick Steps
Here’s a simple guide to help you quickly troubleshoot some common issues:
- Failure to Feed: Check magazine spring, magazine lips, and ammunition type.
- Failure to Extract: Clean the chamber, inspect the extractor, and extractor spring.
- Sticking Pump: Clean and lubricate the action, check for rust and damage.
- Inconsistent Grouping: Check scope mounts (if fitted), barrel tightness, and ammunition.
- Heavy Trigger Pull: Clean the trigger mechanism or replace parts.
This guide provides a starting point for addressing common problems.
Conclusion
The Remington 760 Gamemaster is a testament to the design and engineering of its era. By understanding the potential Remington 760 Gamemaster problems and implementing consistent maintenance and care, you can keep your rifle running smoothly for years to come. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a casual shooter, a well-maintained Remington 760 Gamemaster is a reliable companion for any shooting activity. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, the use of appropriate ammunition, and understanding the rifle’s mechanics, will allow this classic rifle to perform at its best.
Resources
Numrich Gun Parts Corporation (For replacement parts): https://www.gunpartscorp.com/
Remington Arms Official Website (For manuals and information): https://www.remington.com/
Various online forums and shooting communities: (Search for “Remington 760 Gamemaster Forum” to find relevant resources)
