Just picked a new SS & wood ranch rifle. I was going over it working the bolt, the bolt hold open button, inserting a magazine and taking it out, seeing how the safety worked, etc. All of a sudden I can not pull the bolt back. The handle (bolt) will move back about 1/4" and stops, the bolt does not move. The safety is off and cannot be engaged, it does this with and without a magazine inserted, and wether or not the hold open button is pressed.

I know it's probably simple. I've been looking at the manual. Help would be appreciated.

You have "Mini-14 Frozen Bolt Syndrome". It happens when an incompletely cleaned weapon sits around for too long (I know you bought it new). None of the other controls have anything to do with it.

I would first try dousing the bolt area with CLP. I had this happen at the range once, right after several shots. I was able to clear the jam with a single drop of oil.

If that doesn't work, the classic fix is to slam the buttstock against a hard surface. I probably wouldn't do that if the gun had an expensive scope, however.

Finally, you could hammer the charging handle back directly. I would use a soft hammer, or a piece of wood as a cushion to avoid damaging the slide.

Good luck!

That's good to know.
Now if I can remember it if I ever need it.

Try removing the trigger group. If the bolt is not frozen as noted above the op rod/bolt lug may be off the track.

Many thanks to all. Some CLP, a little time, a try that didn't move it, more CLP, and a big pull by hand, and the rifle nearly came out of my grip the bolt moved to the rear so easily! Sort of like bending over to pick up a very heavy bucket and have it be empty. Thanks again fellers.

Kkina to the rescue

Thank you, my kaishaku-nin.

At your service, my friend