HELP with Rem 700 bolt : do I have a safety issue?

[bellavite1]

I had an SPS Tactical in 308 for a few years now.
The rifle has had a Timney trigger professionally installed and adjusted.
I have recently noticed that if I work the bolt (on an empty chamber, of course), with the rifle upright (muzzle up), it will decock upon closing.
Is this normal?

[thedave1164]

Not normal

I would suggest a through cleaning and see if that clears it up, if it doesn't, take it to your favorite gunsmith

[Delfuego]

It is a safety issue and could slam-fire. Just adjust the trigger weight spring. That will be the screw in the front of the trigger. Timney triggers only have a limited weight adjustment, sounds like this one is past it's lightest setting. I would pull the action, turn the screw in (clockwise) a 1/4 turn and cycle the both vigorously to see if the issue persists. If it continues, go another 1/4 turn, ect.

I would not mess with the screw on the back of the trigger. That is the sear engagement and should be glued in place by Timney. If your smith messed with that one, that could cause the issue too.

If this doesn't stop the issue, call Timney. They have been really good in my experience.

[bellavite1]

Just to clarify before I start messing around with screws:
This happens ONLY with the rifle muzzle up, if the rifle is horizontal (or resting on its bipod) it stays cocked just fine.
If I work the bolt while it is horizontal and then put the rifle vertically it also stays cocked, even bumping the buttstock on the floor.
But if I work it while it is ALREADY vertical, than it will NOT cock.
It does not drop, it is more of a smooth thing...
See video below:
http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q358/bellavite1/th_VID_20170419_091148161_zpsebbtswja.mp4 (http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q358/bellavite1/VID_20170419_091148161_zpsebbtswja.mp4)
Very slight indentation on primed case, no primer went off.

[Delfuego]

Yes, You are lacking sear engagement to hold the firing pin in-place.
Try the adjustment. If that doesn't work contact Timney. Also only adjust the pull weight screw, not the sear screw (unless your smith screwed with that one).
I bet if you slammed the bolt closed in a horizontal configuration it will drop.

[bellavite1]

Well, that did it!
The screw, I am assuming the one with the lock nut, was completely loose...
Adjusted the screw, tightened the lock nut, problem solved!
Lesson learned.
Thanks man! [Beer]

[Delfuego]

You're welcome! Glad it was easy.

As a rule, Timney tells users not to adjust that one, just the weight spring, thus the glue they put on there.