Deerdown, I wouldnot say you ruined your gun by popping a 1/2 dozen through it, But if you are concerned take it to a respectale dealer and explain the situation and have him look it over.

As far as the bolt closing hard with the reloads you got from your friend, that could be caused by a few things. it could have been due to long seated bullets, or the cases not sized correct, or could be that they needed trimmed. Have you tried any of the ammo that you have used prior to using the reloads? Lets face it you would know your gun better than any one else.

Shane