As the heading states, while attempting to break-in a new custom made tactical bolt action rifle, I experienced a malfunction that unfortunately sent me to the hospital and the eye doctor. To be fair and as impartial as possible, I do not want to mention the company’s name at this time.
After ensuring the barrel was not obstructed, I inserted the bolt, loaded a magazine and chambered one round. The plan was to break the barrel in according to the manufacturer’s instructions (fire one round, clean…..fire another, clean….you know how it goes) As I squeezed the trigger on the very first round there was a large flash in my face. The best way to describe it is like a cartoon picture that depicts a blast – sparks, flash, debris…. It felt like being punched and hit with a sandblaster at the same time. My face and right eye sustained damage from some apparent blowback through the bolt area on the rifle.
Later that evening (after the ER and Eye Dr), I was able to open the bolt (at the range it would not open at all). A small piece of steel (broken extractor) fell out, followed by the rear portion of the shell casing (.308). The casing was mushroomed in front of the primer area nearly double the size it originally was. The bolt release mechanism is now damaged and the bolt will not cycle fully to the rear. The rest of the casing is stuck in the barrel.
Would anyone know what may have been the cause of this? My guess is it may have something to do with the “headspace” in the rifle/barrel area? I was using reputable ammunition from a well known company that we’ve been using for over 20yrs without any problems. I’m not ruling out the ammunition; however I’ve never seen this happen in the past.
Although I’ve lurked here in the past, this is my first post – any and all input/help would be appreciated!
So please do a public service announcement and let us know who the 'smith was that put this out upon the unsuspecting public before someone else hurts themselves.