The safety on my Mark V rifle isn't as easy to operate as it once was. Can I do anything to fix this?

The safety system on the Mark V action employs a camming style of operation which both draws the cocking piece off of the trigger sear and locks the bolt. The result is a very effective mechanical safety, but it does require lubrication (grease) in order to operate smoothly. Any quality gun grease will work, as well as common white lithium, black graphite and even red bearing grease.

Fresh grease should be applied to the safety mechanism after a complete cleaning to remove old grease and any detritus that might have collected. A small syringe-type applicator can work best, and only a pea-sized amount needs to be applied so that it can work into both surfaces. There are three areas that should be greased:

1. The underside of the bolt sleeve
2. In the open area where the cocking piece and safety meet
3. In the slot where the safety and the safety hook meet

See the photos below for clarification on these locations.