ArizonaShooting.ORG

So I bought a new Tikka rifle today.
I was extracting the set screws to mount a scope bracket.
I got the first three screws out but the fourth one would come out. It screws to what looks like the end of it but it does fall out and I can't pull it out and additional unscrewing won't get it out.

I'm really open for suggestions. I would hate to have to pay a Smith to extract one little set screw.

Again, OPEN FOR SUGGESTIONS...................

Put some vacuum tubing on a pair of thin nosed needle nose pliers and remove.

I suspect a slight burr on either the filler screw or the tapped hole. I would unscrew it as far as it will go and try gripping it with needle-nose pliers or, preferably, a small vice grip very gently clamped. Turn the screw counter-clockwise while gently pulling up and it will probably come out.

I've tried both of the above suggestions but neither of them work as the screw is not out far enough to latch on to it with pliers (of either type)

Don't give up. I've never had this forum fail me yet..............

Post a picture?

Can you get at the screw from inside the action and apply pressure to help the screw out while turning?

Do the filler screws have a slot for a screwdriver or are they socket set screws? If they are socketed you may be able to peen the allen wrench with a hammer to get a tight semi-press fit that you can then tap into the socket in order to allow the upward pulling pressure you need. I would make sure the set screw is tightened all the way down before trying this to avoid damaging the threads. Don't go crazy, use just enough peening to give a slight resistance fit.

Thanks for all the help guys. I tried several suggestions but ended up taking the gun to the Smith.

30 seconds later he had the screw out. But at least I didn't screw up my new gun. JEEEEZ

gunpoorboy1 wrote: ↑May 25th, 2023, 6:39 pm Thanks for all the help guys. I tried several suggestions but ended up taking the gun to the Smith.

30 seconds later he had the screw out. But at least I didn't screw up my new gun. JEEEEZ

Beats waiting on UPS to lose it.

Glad you got it sorted out.

gunpoorboy1 wrote: ↑May 25th, 2023, 6:39 pm Thanks for all the help guys. I tried several suggestions but ended up taking the gun to the Smith.

30 seconds later he had the screw out. But at least I didn't screw up my new gun. JEEEEZ

Good, but you have to tell us what the gunsmith did that you didn't.

smithers599 wrote: ↑May 26th, 2023, 5:34 am

gunpoorboy1 wrote: ↑May 25th, 2023, 6:39 pm Thanks for all the help guys. I tried several suggestions but ended up taking the gun to the Smith.

30 seconds later he had the screw out. But at least I didn't screw up my new gun. JEEEEZ

Good, but you have to tell us what the gunsmith did that you didn't.

And tell us which gunsmith you took your rifle to, and would you let him work on your firearms again ?

Thanks,
BB

I'm thinking a screw-holding screwdriver.

Those little screws on a Tikka action are just plastic filler screws. This happens all the time you can usually pry them out carefully with a dental pick. Easy peasy.

I lay a knife blade edge against the side of the screw if it sticks up at all above the action. The blade works like continuation of the threads and the screws usually turns right out when the screw is turned.