[CA357]

I cannot get the pin into the receiver. Just for grins, I took the bolt out and the pin will not go through even then.

I may just take it to a gunsmith and throw myself on his mercy. I'm pissed. I have some gun savvy and not just a little skill. This is frustrating as hell.

Also, the bolt sits slightly off center when it's inserted. If I twist it a bit, it sits correctly. Is it possible I've got a lemon? At this point, I can't help but wonder.

here's a pic:

[CA357]

I know that the bolt must be pushed forward. I've been doing that.

[NGIB]

It looks like the half-moon shaped thingy that holds the spring to the bolt has slipped out of place. Take the bolt out and shoot another picture of the top of the bolt...

[KMO]

No! Don't hammer it! I think I know where you're hung up. You have the receiver back on the frame, and the bolt back in the receiver, right? Now, you're trying to push the bolt stop pin and mainspring assembly back in place, right? If I'm correct, make sure you put an empty magazine back into the mag well. Now, pull the trigger, and push a small screwdriver up from beneath, pushing the hammer forward completely. Now, try the bolt stop pin and mainspring assembly once again. Before you push the latch closed, make sure you tip the muzzle upward at a 45-degree angle so the hammer strut engages with the mainspring housing properly. Then push the latch closed.

[CA357]

I have done everything suggested and the pin will not go in. At this point I'm thinking of sending it back to Ruger, then selling it and buying a Buckmark. This sucks.

[JonM]

i use a small soft hammer to give the thing a smack as in rubber mallet. a few light taps works well to seat it that last little bit. on a new gun or one that hasnt been taken apart the reciever and grip assemblies can be VERRRRRY tight.

as someone else said the recoil spring has to be on the bolt correctly as well. it can be a little finicky to get it centered correctly as it likes to pop off of the other side when brand new.

[CA357]

I don't know what's going on with it. Tapping it doesn't even budge it. It's going back to Ruger.

[Car54]

CA, These are optional parts sold aftermarket to help you out....

The first one opens a wider path to the pin hole, the second one allows enough "uumph" to seat the pin. Good luck!

[CA357]

I wrapped it, packed it and tomorrow it's going to Ruger. I am mightily pissed. Something has to be out of spec, there's just no way I can be doing it wrong.

I've had tons of help here and watched videos until I'm cross eyed. Back to Ruger it goes.

[stalkingbear]

I wish we was closer so I could show you how to reassemble it CA357. I have a hard time trying to explain actions into words or I'd give it a shot but they already have given you solid advise.