I have a high number '03 Springfield action that I am thinking of making into a .257 Roberts sporter. My question is if I can safely grind off the bolster on the right side of the front action ring? I know of some fine rifles in .22 caliber where this modification has been done, but I have never heard of it being done in a centerfire caliber. This modification would streamline the shape of the action somewhat. I do not know the original purpose of this bolster considering that most other bolt actions of that time did not have this feature. Thoughts and opinions appreciated.

Antonio

It is my understanding that the "bolster" as you refer to that reinforced receiver area came about when the U.S. Army ordnance board went from the .30-Gov't-03 cartridge to the adopted version in 1906-- the .30/Gov't-06.. Why, your guess is as good as mine. have a Model 70 in .257 Roberts-- made in 1947- I'd like to have a fiver for every coyote and fox and raccoon I have killed with it--excellent varmint round indeed-- RWTF

Thanks Runs. I never thought of that. I thought that all Springfields had the bolster, early and late. I do hope to get more information from the very knowledgable folks on this site, especially those with some knowledge of metalurgy and Springfield vs. Mauser metalurgy.