7.62x39 on a mauser action

[Light Infantry]

So just thinking out loud.

i have a couple Spanish Mauser actions kicking around along with a savage barrel in 762x39.

Basically "free" parts collected over time.

What are my cons and potential issues to build a rifle on this calibre on this platform.

Going a step further, how about on an Enfield No. 4 action?

Not being one who builds these, a couple items come to mind: Barrel threads and magazine feeding issues.

I know its easier to just buy one, but i have the parts. I probably have some kind of beat up Mauser stock, and do have LE wood, worst case is i need to buy a forearm.

Looking at a super cheap fun gun.

Thanks for any info.

 

[tiriaq]

You would have to cut Lee Enfield 1-14 55 degree threads over the 1.05-20 Savage threads, leaving enough original threads to use the Savage lock nut. I cut 1.05-16 Remington threads on a 1.05-20 Savage shank. Looked odd worked OK. To get a repeater, the bolt face, ejector and extractor will have to be reworked. Then a magazine system would have to be incorporated. It can be done - has been done - but it does take some work.
The Mauser bolt face might need alterations for the smaller 7.62x39 head, and the magazine would have to be adapted for the shorter, smaller round. It can be done.

 

[Light Infantry]

Tiriaq, yes correct.

After i posted, i thought some more and realized all the extra work. pretty sure the mauser bolt face would need work.

Better to buy ready made i think.

My other and i think best option would be to buy a cheap (not so much anymore) Stevens 200 and swap out barrels.

 

[bearhunter]

When using a No4 action for the 7.62x39, you have the option of fitting a magazine into an original mag

An AR or Ruger Mini 30 mag would likely fit well enough that you could get away with epoxying one into place.

As for using a take off 303 Brit barrel, cut of the original thread tenon, leaving part of the original chamber. That would mean removing appx 1.325 inches.

This leaves enough metal to cut a new thread tenon and cut a new chamber for those bullets.

IMHO, you would be better off using a take off Mosin Nagant barrel and cutting off the chamber/tenon, if you were concerned about accuracy. Mind you, if you're planning on shooting hand loads, there's no reason not to use proper diameter .312 bullets for your loads.

I saw a No1 that was converted from a battered and beaten Indian rifle with a .310 bore diameter, using the above method.

The fellow had opted to use some AR mags he had on hand and his rifle worked flawlessly, with hand loads/commercial/surplus.

He used to frequent this board but now only as a looky loo. Maybe he will chime in?? The rifle was in Alberta at the time.

I guess an insert could be sweated into the chamber area but if you aren't going to try to make the rifle look like an issue piece????

 

[gaff]

youtube is your friend, look up Mauser conversion, and Enfield conversion. mag box and ejector ideas.
Enfield No4 barrels can be set back and rechambered for 7.62x39.