788s have a reputation for being very accurate factory rifles, possibly the most accurate out of the box factory rifles made, even though they were marketed as an economy rifle. They seem to be listed in the + or - $400 range, depending on condition, scope, etc. There are two variations. Earlier ones have surface mounted trigger guards and plates and a straight bolt handle, later ones inletted bottom metal and a slightly backswept handle. There is also a mechanical difference. Bolt handle are pegged into the bolt body and induction copper brazed in place. The attachment on earlier ones was more flimsy than on the later ones. The thread diameter of the bolt plug was reduced, so that there could be a larger contact area for the braze. Bolt handles can be broken off. 788s do not have powerful primary extraction; if a case is sticking DO NOT use brute force on the handle. I have personally seen a couple of dozen with bolt handles detached. Most of these rifles had been used hard. Bolt bodies are hard to locate, and re-attaching a handle is a bit tricky, because red heat is required, and the handle is very close to the locking lugs. Magazines are out of production and can be found, but tend to be pricey. The 3 shot(.243) magazine must be removed from the rifle for loading. The rifles are out of production, so you are on your own for parts. Bolt manipulation is a bit clunky. If you handload, you may find that cases stretch and will require trimming; this is because of the rear lugs, and bolt compression on discharge. The rifles can be fine shooters, and are much appreciated by many owners. The design is quirky, and has shortcomings. Used carefully, one can give excellent service.
