Think your Savage rifle has a “dirty bolt head” and that your brand-new rifle is “used”?  Well, it is – sort of.  Don’t worry – this is completely normal and it’s actually a good thing! Let’s take a look at why that is.  

Proof Testing

We want to ensure that every firearm is the best that it can be and will last a lifetime.  One of final inspections that Savage completes before a firearm is boxed up is to put it through an extensive trip through the range.  This includes firing a proof round through it along with firing a number of traditional rounds to ensure that everything functions properly.  

A proof round is a cartridge that will develop higher than normal chamber pressure.  It is designed to test the firearm above normal operating pressures to ensure that everything can withstand continued firing during its life.  Once the proof test is completed, the firearm is shot again with traditional ammunition to help ensure that everything functions as it should.  

Warning: Proof rounds are not to be fired outside of a controlled testing environment with extra safety precautions. Never use hand loaded ammunition that deviates from pressures generated by factory loads or from competent recommendations specified in reputable hand loading manuals. This can cause severe damage to the firearm and serious injury to the shooter. Savage Arms does not recommend hand loading, but if you choose to, please be aware that hand loading can and will void the factory warranty. 

You will see two stamps on all barrels just in front of the lock nut to indicate that it has passed proof and function tests. One indicates that it has been proof tested and the second indicates function testing. This is something that Savage has completed on every firearm going back quite a number of years.  This extensive testing is something that not all manufactures complete when a firearm is built.  

All of this testing in the range is a reason that some bolt heads look like they are dirty right out of the box.  Proof testing is just one way that Savage goes the extra mile to ensure that Better Comes Standard.

It’s not necessary to clean the bolt head in this condition before you shoot it for the first time. However, if you want to clean it, simply spray it with a small amount of solvent and use a soft bristle brush to clean it up. 

Left: Bolt head after proof testing. Right: Bolt head before proof testing.

There you have it – a “dirty bolt head” on your new Savage rifle is the result of proof testing your rifle at our factory before it’s shipped to ensure everything works and will last a lifetime. 

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