Model 550-1 Cleaning

[DonHoneycuttJr]

I have recently purchased a Model 550-1 Semi Auto 22. Cleaning instructions that I have seen suggest removing the receiver plug, in order to remove the bolt assembly. The bolt holding the receiver plug on my rifle seems to be jammed. There are marks in the flat head slot suggesting someone has struggled to remove that bolt. The receiver plug seems loose as I can turn it several degrees back and forth, with my fingers.

I do not want to damage any part of this assembly as the rifle shoots well, as is, but I would like to be able to run a cleaning rod through the barrel from the receiver end and I am concerned with the loose receiver plug. Any suggestions?

[TNyoteboy]

You've got a small flat head screw that sits inside the "receiver plug" that secures the magazine tube. From my experience that model is a bugger-bear to disassemble and I don't suggest it unless you just have no other choice. I've done it a few times and it will lead to some cussing on your part before you get it back together. That plug is really easy to crossthread when you do manage to get it back together. Have you ever thought about a can of gun scrubber and a bore snake?