1903a3 front guard screw bent, how does this happen?

[DLS]

I have a very nice 1903a3 I picked up years ago from the CMP. It's been flawless since I've had it.

I recently broke it down for a thorough cleaning and when I went to put it back together noticed that the front guard screw was bent. It would only turn in about 3/4 turn before binding (hand turned, I did not want to strip out the receiver).

So here's the question … I keep the screws snugged and test them with a snugly fitted screwdriver before shooting. So how in heck could it have become bent like this?

Just a moment ago I installed a new GI screw that arrived today from Numrich. It had a tiny bit of drag as I installed it but it snugged up without any problems.

How did this screw get bent? Any ideas?

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[Mooseman]

My best guess is recoil....something moved enough to bend it.

 

[DLS]

That would be my guess too … but the rear screw is fine and the screw was snugged up tight before firing. Nothing else is out of order / spec that I can tell.

These screws are too robust to bend when being inserted / removed.

 

[Mooseman]

Front screw should be torqued about 35 Inch Pounds , the rear about 20 inch pounds.
Check inside the stock for any damage to the recoil lug contact area

 

[Mooseman]

Front screw should be torqued about 35 Inch Pounds , the rear about 20 inch pounds.
Check inside the stock for any damage to the recoil lug contact area