Top 6 Mossberg 702 Plinkster Problems and Solutions

Are you a proud owner of the Mossberg 702 Plinkster? This iconic .22 calibre lightweight, semi-automatic rifle is known for its reliability and affordability, making it a favourite among shooting enthusiasts.

However, even the most reliable firearms can encounter issues from time to time. That’s where we come in.

In this article, we’ll explore six common problems Mossberg 702 Plinkster owners might face and provide you with practical solutions.

From failure to feed to accuracy problems and cleaning tips, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and make sure your Plinkster keeps plinking!

Table of Contents

6 Mossberg 702 Plinkster Problems and Proven Solutions

Failure to Feed

One of the frustrating issues you might encounter with your Mossberg 702 Plinkster is a failure to feed. This means your rifle isn’t reliably and consistently loading rounds into the chamber, interrupting your shooting experience.

Solution

To tackle this problem, start by inspecting your magazine. Ensure it’s clean, free of debris, and in good condition. Something versatile, like the Original Gun Oil, should do the trick.

Next, check the ammunition you’re using; opt for high-quality, clean rounds. Don’t forget to clean and lubricate your firearm regularly, paying special attention to the bolt and chamber.

If your magazine springs are weak, replace them with springs recommended by the manufacturer. This should help prevent future feed failures and keep your Plinkster ploughing smoothly.

Jamming

Jamming issues can turn a day at the range into a frustrating experience. Common Mossberg 702 Plinkster jamming problems include failures to extract spent casings or failures to eject them properly, causing rounds to get stuck in the chamber.

Solution

To clear a jam, first, ensure your rifle is unloaded and the safety is engaged. Then, carefully inspect the chamber and barrel for any obstructions or stuck rounds.

If you find any, use a cleaning rod or a proper tool to clear the obstruction. Keep your firearm well-maintained, paying close attention to the extractor and ejector, as these components can cause jams if they’re dirty or damaged.

Regularly cleaning and lubricating your Plinkster is essential to prevent future jams.

How Often Should You Lubricate the Mossberg 702 Plinkster?

Regularly clean and lubricate your Plinkster after every shooting session, or at least every few hundred rounds, to maintain its reliability. I would go for a 3-in-1 cleaner that lubricates, cleans and protects vital components.

My personal favorite is the Original Gun Oil, which is a bit expensive but worth every penny in the long run. It is NSF H1 certified and has an effective temperature range of -47°F to +497°F which help it to perform during those rapid-fire sessions where the components have less time to cool down. That’s where all the difference is!

Firing Pin Issues

Firing pin problems can manifest as light primer strikes, misfires, or failures to ignite the cartridge. These issues can be frustrating and impact your shooting accuracy.

Solution

If you’re experiencing firing pin issues, start by checking for symptoms like light primer strikes. This could indicate a worn or damaged firing pin.

To prevent this problem, ensure you clean and maintain your firearm regularly.

If you do need to replace a damaged firing pin, consult your Mossberg 702 Plinkster’s manual for guidance or seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith.

Side note: Using high-quality ammunition and regularly cleaning your rifle’s barrel can reduce the risk of firing pin issues as well as significantly improve accuracy.

How to Clean the Barrel of Mossberg 702 Plinkster?

Use a cleaning rod and a bore brush designed for .22 calibre rifles. Run a few patches soaked in solvent through the barrel, followed by dry patches until they come out clean.

Additionally, consider upgrading your rifle with optics, adjustable sights or even muzzle brakes if needed, as this can enhance your shooting experience.

Magazine Feeding Problems

Magazine-related issues can result in erratic feeding, causing interruptions during your shooting sessions.

Solution

To diagnose and resolve magazine feeding problems, ensure your magazines are clean and free of debris. Regular maintenance of your magazines is crucial for long-term reliability.

If you continue to face issues, consider replacing old or damaged magazines with new, high-quality ones that are designed for your Mossberg 702 Plinkster.

Extraction and Ejection Issues

Extraction and ejection problems can lead to spent casings getting stuck in the action or failing to eject properly.

Solution

If you encounter extraction or ejection issues, inspect the extractor and ejector for dirt, fouling, or damage.

Regular cleaning and lubrication can help prevent these problems.

Ensure your ammunition is of good quality, as low-quality rounds can contribute to extraction issues.

Issues with the Trigger

Trigger problems can affect your shooting accuracy and overall experience with the Mossberg 702 Plinkster.

Trigger issues evolved with Mossberg 702 Plinkster include heavy or stiff trigger pull, creeping trigger (uneven pull) or the trigger may fail to reset after firing.

Solution

If you’re experiencing issues with the trigger mechanism, carefully diagnose the problem. Check for any obstructions or debris in the trigger assembly and clean it thoroughly.

Make sure to lubricate the trigger components correctly.

If you continue to have issues, seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith to diagnose and fix any underlying problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, addressing common problems with your Mossberg 702 Plinkster is essential for maintaining an enjoyable shooting experience.

All in all, the Mossberg 702 Plinkster is not an unreliable rifle by any means. Most of the above-mentioned issues are encountered with other guns as well.

Additionally, most of them arise due to improper or insufficient maintenance from the owner’s side and have nothing to do with the intrinsic structure of the rifle.

If you are reading this article to help you decide whether to buy it or not, I would say: Absolutely, go for it! The only genuine concern is the sightly plasticy feel. If you are okay with that, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. Click here to buy it from Guns.com, my recommended online retailer.

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