96 over 98

If speed is a factor then a small ring is a better choice.

The small ring mausers are #### on close actions and are faster to operate than large ring mausers. They’re not as fast as a Lee Enfield but a good quality Swede m38 with a bent bolt isn’t that far behind.
 
Only pre-98 design small ring Mausers #### on closing.
There are lots of small ring Mausers and derivatives that #### on opening.
 
Speed is more a factor of bolt smoothness than whether it cocks on closing or opening. Lee Enfields are fast because they have a 60-degree bolt throw, as opposed to the Mauser's 90-degree. I have a couple of 98's here that would run a pretty tight race with any Swedish Mauser.
 
Speed is more a factor of bolt smoothness than whether it cocks on closing or opening. Lee Enfields are fast because they have a 60-degree bolt throw, as opposed to the Mauser's 90-degree. I have a couple of 98's here that would run a pretty tight race with any Swedish Mauser.

I would politely ( Because you are a good fellow and almost always bring the conversation up...not down) put forth a theory that COC is faster. The forward motion of the palm of the one's driving the bolt closed, has better ergonomics cocking a 96 than the COO palm lifting it to #### it on a 98. Clear as mud?
But that is just my personal thoughts; sort of a virtual 'Sitting around the potbellied stove, drinking coffee and smoking...arguing 'cause it's too cold to go outside ' opinion. And my 96 Swede has a straight bolt vs a bent one on the 98, I've never had a 98 with a straight bolt...just worked out that way. So that has to affect ergonomics, if only slightly.
No expert; but I strive to have as many different types of Milsurp bolts as possible, because they are cool.
Krag is sooooooo smooth. If the Swede one's are anything like the Springfield built one's... be a very cool rifle in 6.5 x 55. A 'Sleeper' in racing vernacular so to speak.
Take care
 
I have plenty of experience with both 96 and 98 Mauser rifles. In the field with a loaded rifle,
there is no question that the ####-on-closing 96 is quite a bit faster than the 98.


That said, there are plenty other reasons to prefer the 98.
 
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