When Impulse’s bolt handle is fully closed, a plunger is seated forward in the interior of the bolt body, forcing the six ball bearings outward to lock into a machined recess in the barrel extension. The ball bearings tighten relative to pressure increase when a round is fired, which is what provides the robust lockup for safety. However, if the ball bearings are forced outward when the bolt has been removed from the firearm, Hexlock is engaged, and it will be impossible to install the bolt until it is disengaged. This guide will show you how to disengage Hexlock in order to install the bolt in your Impulse firearm. 

• Ball bearings do not move freely: Hexlock is engaged and needs to be disengaged before installing into the firearm.
• Ball bearings move freely: Hexlock is disengaged, and the bolt is ready to be installed in the firearm.

WARNING! Always keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Make sure your firearm is completely unloaded and ensure that your workspace is void of ammunition at all times. The safety should be set to the Full Safe position. Safety glasses should be worn.

Models

• Impulse

How to Disengage Hexlock

1. Make sure the bolt head is secured to the bolt body by aligning the grooves
2. Check: if the ball bearings do not move freely, then Hexlock is engaged and needs to disengage before inserting into rifle
3. Ensure that the bolt assembly is cocked by rotating the bolt handle to the rear as far as it will go

You can verify that Hexlock is disengaged when the ball bearings move freely, and the bolt head doesn’t rotate. 

How to Install the Impulse Bolt

1. Align the large slot in the left side of the bolt assembly with the left side of the receiver and the bolt release.
   1. Tip: Place your thumb on the bolt handle where it goes into the bolt body for leverage
2. Rotate the entire bolt assembly clockwise slightly. This will help to stop the ejector from binding when the bolt assembly is inserted
3. Insert the bolt assembly into the receiver until slight resistance is met
4. Rotate the bolt assembly counterclockwise slightly and continue to slide it forward. The bolt release will snap into the slot in the bolt assembly.

This video will show you how to recock the bolt and disengage Hexlock in order to install the bolt in your Impulse rifle.

Safe firearm ownership is your responsibility. When something does not sound, feel, or look right, seek the advice of a professional gunsmith immediately.

If you have any questions, please refer to your owner’s manual and call our customer service team at 1-800-370-0708 (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm ET)