Quick Tip: Controlled Feed vs Push Feed - Which Is Better?

Published on February 10, 2021
Duration: 2:12

This video from Brownells explains the fundamental differences between controlled feed and push feed bolt action rifle mechanisms. It clarifies that while users may debate superiority, both systems have proven reliable over decades. The key distinction lies in how the cartridge rim interacts with the bolt during chambering.

Quick Summary

Controlled feed and push feed are two distinct mechanisms in bolt action rifles. Push feed requires the rim to snap under the extractor during chambering, while controlled feed has the rim slide under the extractor as it feeds from the magazine. Both systems are proven to be reliable.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction
  2. 00:10Controlled Feed vs Push Feed Explained
  3. 00:26Push Feed Mechanism (Howa 1500)
  4. 00:53Controlled Feed Mechanism
  5. 01:10Common User Error with Controlled Feed
  6. 01:25Historical Modifications
  7. 01:34Functionality Differences
  8. 01:43Reliability of Both Systems
  9. 01:50AR-15 as Push Feed Example
  10. 01:52Conclusion and Contact

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between controlled feed and push feed bolt action rifles?

The primary difference lies in how the cartridge rim interacts with the bolt. In push feed, the rim snaps under the extractor as it chambers. In controlled feed, the rim slides under the extractor during the feeding motion from the magazine.

Can you chamber a round directly into a controlled feed bolt action rifle?

While possible, it's not the intended method and can cause issues. Unlike push feed actions, the extractor on a controlled feed rifle cannot easily get over the rim unless the round is fed from the magazine.

Are controlled feed or push feed bolt action rifles considered superior?

Both controlled feed and push feed systems have proven to be highly reliable over many decades. Debates about superiority often arise, but both designs have their merits and have been successfully used in various firearms.

What are some examples of controlled feed and push feed rifles?

The Howa 1500 style rifle is presented as an example of a push feed action. Mauser rifles are commonly cited as examples of controlled feed actions, and the AR-15 platform also uses a push feed mechanism.

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