Houston we have a problem

[Mike Breitenbach]

I’m really hoping someone can help me here. I have 16 vh that I can’t open. There are no shells in the gun and it was getting a little sticky last week when I used it. Today went to my favorite cover and couldn’t get the gun to open. I’m fearing the worst here as last week the gun got soaked in rain. I took it apart (not the internals) dried it off and put it away. Anything you can think of trying? I’m heartbroken after this one. Thanks in advance for any help.

Mike

[winplumber]

did you pull the triggers and are the hammers cocked it may just need alittle spank and then a good cleaning inside

[Dean Romig]

Do not despair - we've seen this before. Nothing is incurable.





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[winplumber]

Is the top lever locked all the way as you would be opening ? Brian should be along shortly hang in there

[Mike Breitenbach]

The lever moves slightly maybe 1/8 -1/4 inch. It wasn’t opening when cocked so, probably mistakenly, dried fires in the off chance that would help. Appreciate the kind words gents. Holding tight for now.

[winplumber]

Does the safety move freely? Did you try with the forend off?

[Mike Breitenbach]

Safety moves freely and was having some trouble last weekend of the gun not opening unless the safety was on, if that helps. I have not tried without the forearm, but will.

[B. Dudley]

It sounds like the bolt is just stuck in the bite. The lever will have to be pushed harder or tapped on sharply with a dowel.

[Mike Breitenbach]

Brian-thanks for the reply. I can definitely push harder, I’m a little nervous I’m going to bend the lever. It’s hard to tell how strong that thing is. Any risk bending by hand?

[Mike Breitenbach]

Eureka-that did! Tapped with a dowel, opened up, and put a little ballistol into the action and back in business. Brian and others, really appreciate the support and help more than you will know. This a great community!

Thanks again,
Mike