Bolt fluting?

**jbsmwd** · 01-31-12, 19:15

What is the point of bolt fluting? I have heard that it helps the bolt from freezing to the action ie less surface area. Sako TRG-22/42 rifles don't have it and those are purpose built sniper rifles made by the Finns. I would think that they know a bit about cold weather stuff. I have been told that it help with dirt and stuff in the action area to aid in cleaning and operating. I have not seen a Mauser with fluting from the factory mind my knowledge of this is limited.

So really what are the benifits to having a bolt fluted? Other then weight loss.

**mark5pt56** · 01-31-12, 19:32

Some have "sand/ice" cuts to account for those conditions. The spiral cuts, etc you see are mainly for show. I don't know how much weight it reduces, so you have to measure cost in my opinion. I'm sure there's plenty of Inuit hunters that get along fine without this feature.

**bleaman225** · 01-31-12, 19:36

I agree with Mark5.56 that people do it primarily for looks/show.

I personally believe that it would hurt more than help. Those flutes give pesky little pieces of dirt a place to sit and go for a fun and exciting ride into the receiver. Whereas an un-fluted bolt would, arguably, be more likely to roll the dirt off and fall out of the action. Doesn't seem like a good idea to me.

I have no battle proven theory, just my opinion on the matter.