R. Marshall,
OK, the latest photos clearly show you have an early transition action without the bolt shroud lock and with the early firing pin. Do you have any other rifle built on a mod 98 action? If so, it would clarify my description if you remove the firing pin/shroud assy. from both, and compare them. It is possible that instead of "cocking on opening", it "Cocks on closing" like 93/94/95/96 actions. Try opening the bolt, withdraw it a little, close it, then see if the safety works. I feel guilty about advising you to buy that dirty old thing and would be willing to give your money back for it, so you won't lose anything.
Mike
