Deadshot - As kind of a short primer on Husky rifles, the series are approximately below, this is just info cribbed from various sources that may or may not be reliable
1.
Model 94/96 - Classic #### on close CRF M94/96 Mausers, 1927-1949. Great especially with 6.5x55 cartridges, but a different beast than the 98s.
2.
M98 Mauser versions all CRF - several different ones 1937-1956
- Model 146, 246 -
- Model 646, 648, 649
- Model 1000, 1100, maybe others
The model designation is kind of an inside joke, as they aren't marked by model number.
These are the sweet spot. Made with Swedish steel, mostly by FN and excellent quality. Not sure, but I would guess the earlier series are built on military actions with thumb cut outs for stripper clips, where the later ones don't have thumb cut outs or stripper clip guides milled in to the bridge. Several options for stocks as they are one of the most used actions for sporter rifles in history...probably? Most of the Huskys you find will now have a cracked tang area in the stock: most are beech with schnable forends. With Intersurplus, look for 'Commercial FN' in the description.
Several other manufacturers used the FN98 actions for sporting rifles too. Sako and Browning both called their versions 'Hi Power' and also great rifles. But much more $$. The Huskys are fantastic value for the quality.
Parts aren't really an issue. If you ever have to replace an extractor or wing safety, they are available through most gun stores that sell parts and are interchangeable for the most part. But not likely you'd ever have to.
If you want to geek out over the Husky rifles, Riflechair has a couple of videos talking about these great rifles:
3.
Model 1600/1640 - 1953-1967 - CRF models, but a completely different proprietary Swede action. A bit lighter in profile with equal height front ring and rear bridge. I've never had one, but they are very well regarded. Some models have aluminum and some steel floorplates. Probably a better hunting rifle as they are lighter. But harder on the shoulder cuz they are lighter. Also infamous for cracked tangs!
4.
Model 1900 - 1967-1972 or so - Push feed models. This action was also used by several manufacturers after, including Carl Gustav, Viking, Fairfox, and Antonio Zoli with various model numbers. I've never owned one but have handled a couple. Extremely well made and slick as well. Most owners hang on to them.
As far as what to look for in a Husky FN, I guess that depends on what you want. A lot of the imported Euro rifles (which is mostly what InterSurplus sells) are modified by cutting barrels down, threading for supressors, removing sights, etc. They often come with modifications for side safeties and/or replacement triggers. To start maybe look for a well cared for original one preferably with sights and an un-cracked stock (if you can find one). Intersurplus is very good about describing the condition and the photos can give you a good idea how well cared for the rifle has been. I'd look carefully at the receivers to make sure the original d&t holes haven't been changed for claw mounts or other European oddities. They also give a pretty reliable description of bore condition.
Hope this helps. You've entered the danger zone when it comes to your credit card!
Happy holidays everyone.
