I've been reading up on the intertubes on this model and from what I can gather there are two polarizing viewpoints: either they are praised for their accuracy and stout build quality or they are loathed for their deviation in the use of an intermediate length receiver, perceived poor build quality, and general lack of collectibility due to absence of war "character". Also thrown in the mix is the issue of bolt smoothness which seems to be dependent on the reviewer and a whole lot of fuzzy and circular logic.
So, in an effort to gain a better understanding of this rifle, I ask the informed intelligesia on CGN the following,
1. What is the build quality of these rifles like ? I understand that they may not be in the same league as the early 19th century South American exports or even some of the Persian/ Swedish Mausers, but how do they compare against the rest of the Mausers in fit, finish, accuracy, smoothness of operation etc ?
2. What is the accuracy of these rifles like ? I've read accounts anywhere from being a tack driver to a minute of pizza box accurate rifle. But then again, given the elite snipers who troll the intertubes in their spare time between 1600m kills, this is not surprising for any rifle. I suspect that it would lie anywhere between 3-4" groups at 100m - as are most surplus rifles, but welcome real world examples.
3. Would you recommend buying one ? My reasoning lies in the fact that they are "new" and that considering the amount (lots) and type (target) of shooting I do, and the picky bastard that I am, mismatched examples, their war character and service notwithstanding, are not too appealing. But this is a reasoning that I could abandon, if pointed in the direction of other fine examples.
4. If not, which Mauser (must be in 8mm, and of carbine length if possible, but not necessary) would you recommend ? I have examples in 30-06 and 6.5mm already - now looking to expand my experience in a new caliber.
5. Any sources, other than EE, to reasonably procure a fine example of your recommended Mauser ?
PS. Please participate in the poll as well.
So, in an effort to gain a better understanding of this rifle, I ask the informed intelligesia on CGN the following,
1. What is the build quality of these rifles like ? I understand that they may not be in the same league as the early 19th century South American exports or even some of the Persian/ Swedish Mausers, but how do they compare against the rest of the Mausers in fit, finish, accuracy, smoothness of operation etc ?
2. What is the accuracy of these rifles like ? I've read accounts anywhere from being a tack driver to a minute of pizza box accurate rifle. But then again, given the elite snipers who troll the intertubes in their spare time between 1600m kills, this is not surprising for any rifle. I suspect that it would lie anywhere between 3-4" groups at 100m - as are most surplus rifles, but welcome real world examples.
3. Would you recommend buying one ? My reasoning lies in the fact that they are "new" and that considering the amount (lots) and type (target) of shooting I do, and the picky bastard that I am, mismatched examples, their war character and service notwithstanding, are not too appealing. But this is a reasoning that I could abandon, if pointed in the direction of other fine examples.
4. If not, which Mauser (must be in 8mm, and of carbine length if possible, but not necessary) would you recommend ? I have examples in 30-06 and 6.5mm already - now looking to expand my experience in a new caliber.
5. Any sources, other than EE, to reasonably procure a fine example of your recommended Mauser ?
PS. Please participate in the poll as well.
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