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From: smpod@ariel.lerc.nasa.gov (Stefan)
Newsgroups: rec.guns
Subject: Re: novice wants advice
Message-ID: <35907@mimsy.umd.edu>
Date: 21 Jun 91 20:12:47 GMT
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In shaffer@achilles.ctd.anl.gov (Michael A. Shaffer ) writes...
# 
#1. Are the 7mm & 8mm Mausers reasonable for this type of hunting?

Both calibers are adequate for deer hunting but the 7mm is probably more
accurate and has less recoil.

#2. Would these used rifles be safe and reasonably accurate?
#     (I would only by rifles in NRA very good or better condition
#       and have them checked by a gunsmith)

Yes, if you make sure that there are no rust and cracks.  It would be a good
idea to bring the rifle to a trusty gunsmith for headspace check and overall
inspection.

#3. Which versions would y'all recommend?

The K98k on the market are plentiful and relatively cheap, e.g. less than $200.
They are relatively short but give one hell of a kick with the 8mm bullets.
The 7mm on the market are a little less plentiful but still cheap, e.g. less 
than $160.  The long rifles (29" barrels) are very accurate but a little clumsy
if you're a hunter.  The best 7mm on the market are probably the Chilean M1912.
The Chilean M1895 are nice guns too but are not as strong as the M1912.  You
can buy carbine and short rifle versions but they are more rare and a little
more expensive.  There are some Spanish 7mm short rifles on the market but they
tend to be in worse condition and are not as well made.

Why not try the M1896 or M36 Swedish Mausers which come in 6.5x55?  These rifles
are a steal for the money, e.g. less than $150.  Little recoil and excellent a
ccuracy and the cartridge should be more than adequate for deer hunting. The
M1896 has a 29" barrel while the M36 is a short rifle version. 

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