I was stripping my SA-08 for a thorough cleaning and got to the step to remove the bolt handle from the bolt. I followed the directions to the letter as far as I could tell, but the bolt handle won't release. As a result I can't remove the bolt and fully clean the weapon. Anybody else experience this or have any experience?
I had the same sort of issue the other night. After removing my barrel and trigger assembly, I wasn't able to get the bolt to open. I didn't remove the bolt handle, but the thing was just locked up. I had the same problem a while back, but I ended up just pounding the buttstock on the ground and eventually the thing would retract and let me reassemble.
After taking the trigger assembly out, and using a flathead screwdrivier, the rod that goes into the buttstock with the spring will retract, but the bolt assembly stays stuck. It seems to do that after the bolt goes forward when the barrel is removed, but im not sure as to what exactly is causing the hangup. Im taking her down the the local smith to get it cleaned up anyway, and I'll mention it to him, and let you know what he says.
After talking with my gunsmith, and he did confirm that the receiver not retracting is something that is caused by it going too far forward...he mentioned removing the bolt handle should free it, but since you removed yours and it still wouldn't budge, I'm not too sure if we are having the same problem.
I can't actually get the bolt handle to release. I probably just need to take it to the smith for a good cleaning. Problem is I'm leaving to move to California Friday and I don't have time. I guess it'll just have to wait a couple months until the dust settles on the move.
