Marlin Firearms Collectors Association

wondering why on some 1893 lever actions the bolt has distinctive half moon notches on the front end while others dont have any at all. i assume its a relief for gas.

Bill,

Yes it is for gas relief in the event of a ruptured case. The original 1895's have very pronounced cuts in the bolt. I don't know that I've seen a square Marlin bolt without the cuts. Even the 1889's have the cut, which were the first square bolt side eject Marlin.

-jim

thanks jim i bought a spare bolt that has no notches. i have seen bolts of various calibers that have very fine almost non exsistant relief notches. i cant explain it.