Marlin Model 20A ??

[44/40]

I recently bought a Mod. 20A pump, and like it second only to my 39A and Mountie - a really neat little old timey 22. In deference to it's age, I've only fired lower pressure ammo in it (Rem. subsonic H.P.'s).
BUT, upon firing, the action opens itself about halfway. I can put forward pressure on the forend and make it stay closed but can feel it wanting to open. I need some advice from the experts here - is this a problem with the locking block ? Can it (or whatever the problem is) be fixed, or do I have to find a replacement part ? Numrich has none, any other sources ? Thanks for any help.

[jdad]

If you cycle the action, so that the bolt is closed and the hammer is cocked, you should not be able to open it again until the hammer is fully down against the bolt. If you've ever owned a Winchester 1890,1906, or 62 you will notice that they operate the same way. Once you pull the trigger and fire the round, the bolt is unlocked/released so you can cycle the next round. It's a safety feature. The bolt will pop open a little, but not half way upon firing.

If you can repeatibly cycle the action without dropping the hammer you have a problem. It may be the hammer return spring.

[bcp]

Will it open if you fire it without holding the forend at all? I found this sometimes happens to me when pulling back on the forend when firing.

Bruce

[44/40]

jdad - I can pump it repeatedly without pulling the trigger & dropping the hammer.

bcp - action opens on firing when holding lightly and when not holding it at all (on a rest).

?????