Converting a Bolt-Action into a semi?

[DennisCA]

I was just wondering - Is this even possible?

Or does it depend on the weapon?

[ElvenSoul]

If you own a M1 Springfield

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedersen_device

[Fjold]

Yes, 03 Springfields were converted to semiauto using the Pederson device. Attached to the 1903 Springfield, the device converted it to semi-auto using .32 cal cartridge in 1918.

In Palestine during 1917, Trooper Ion. L. Idriess of the ALH (Australian Light Horse) worked on an idea to convert the SMLE Short Magazine Lee Enfield Mk III bolt-action .303 to a gas-operated semi or full-auto rifle. An Armourer-Sergeant King of the NZC (New Zealand Contingent) was detailed to assist him. A working model was built and forwarded to England for study and possible adoption.

The Lee Enfield 303 was also converted to full auto with the Charlton device and that conversion was actually put into production by the British in WWII.

[bohoki]

i guess anything could be adapted to a blowback so you are limited in calibers anything over 22 can be sleeved for 22

but why convert a centerfire bolt action to a 22lr that would end up costing more than a 10/22