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 Surplus 7.62x51 Bolt actions
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/10/2011 5:29:12 PM
As part of my of caliber reduction/ammunition consolidation plan as well as my quest for a compatible “Truck Gun” I would like some input on 7.62x51 bolt guns. I am familiar with about everything currently or previously out there but, would like some input as to the +/-‘s members have with the various platforms.

My requirements are that it must be capable of rapid reloading via stripper clips. That leaves 99% of the commercial offerings out. In the future I may also forward mount either an RDS or low powered optic to achieve a budget Scout Rifle, as there are currently mounting options out there for most surplus actions. I would prefer receiver mounted peep sights as most forward optic mounts available utilize the barrel mounted rear sight base which negates the possibility of back up irons. I would like to keep it as affordable as possible. Though I have a plan for something semi-custom if nothing out there is easily adaptable to my wants/needs.

These are the options I am currently considering in no particular order;

Israeli K98: Basically meets most of my requirements except receiver peep sights. Finding one in anything other than the current poor/fair condition with a decent bore is next to impossible without spending stupid money. Anything approaching very good/excellent would be too valuable as a collector for my purposes. IIRC, at one time there were Norwegian barrels available in 7.62 as well as .30-06. One of those in 7.62 could always be screwed into any K98 and achieve the same results.

Spanish FR8: Has most features I’m looking for but, prices for nice examples are getting high. Not wild about the straight bolt handle though I’m sure any bent ‘98 bolt that gages acceptably would rectify that. FR7’s (93/95) actions need not apply.

Ishapore 2A/2A1 Enfields: Probably the easiest to find and most affordable option out there. The 12 round magazine is a plus though replacements can be finicky since they were not intended to be used with multiple spares as we do today. I only wish the Indians would have used the No.4,Mk1 action instead of a No.1,Mk III. If these had the receiver mounted peep sights of the No.4 they would be perfect. As is, there is no easy way to mount a peep on a No.1 that I know of. Converting a No.4 to 7.62 is possible but, would be cost prohibitive as L39 parts are as rare and expensive as hen’s teeth.

My custom plan revolves around a Springfield ‘03A3 action re-barreled to 7.62x51 with an 18” barrel threaded 5/8x24 and a XS or custom barrel mounted optics rail. Just need to find a previously Bubba’d example to use as a donor. While ‘03’s in general are expensive compared to the other candidates, NIW repair parts are still relatively cheap and plentiful when compared to used parts for the other platforms.

So, give me your input,

Wpns Man
Noname  [Team Member]
11/10/2011 6:22:45 PM



Heads up ––––––––––––- Sportsman Guide still has large-ring 98 7.62 barrels.

I got one a few weeks back and it was in about 90% condition...


http://shop.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/mauser-large-ring-take-off-barrel.aspx?a=824281




Moondog  [Member]
11/10/2011 7:30:46 PM
Originally Posted By Noname:



Heads up ––––––––––––- Sportsman Guide still has large-ring 98 7.62 barrels.

I got one a few weeks back and it was in about 90% condition...


http://shop.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/mauser-large-ring-take-off-barrel.aspx?a=824281





Have any troubles headspacing it? Just curious.
tangeant  [Team Member]
11/10/2011 8:50:43 PM
Pretty much the choices of readily available surp 7.62 bolt guns are....

FR-8, excellent short carbine.
Izzy 98K, Most are X-Guatemalan clunkers.
Ishapore 2A, Good choice but is a full length rifle.
Chilean 1912-61 Mauser Carbine.

Navy Arms or Gibbs made shorty jungle carbine conversions of 2A's. if you want a stock gun the FR-8 or Chilean 1912-61 is the way to go.
KB7DX  [Team Member]
11/10/2011 9:19:22 PM
Mauser large ring action and one of these barrels. Have it profiled however you like and threaded. I sold off a Yugo M48 action waiting on thier .45acp conversion only to find they are making these barrels now. I may try to find an old LR Mauser with a bad barrel and make a "truck gun" from one of these.
WatchDog762  [Member]
11/10/2011 9:55:37 PM
A friend had a K98 in 7.62, he liked it it but it wasn't very accurate.

FR8, correct me if I'm wrong, but it really isn't made for the modern loading of 7.62x51 NATO. I believe it was made for the reduced CETME loading.

I have a Ishapore 2A Jungle Carbine and really like it. I refinished the metal to a matte OD Green using Brownells GunKote, stripped and oiled the stock and put a surplus Enfield sling on it. It is fairly accurate out to 300 yards. I put on a aftermarket mag and have zero problems with feeding. The major drawback is the sights. The read sight is ok for 100 yard work but a different rear sight configuration would be nice. The rifle as a whole is pretty good, short, quick handling, smooth action, moderate recoil, no flash. I haven't tried reloading the mag with stripper clips, so can't comment on that. I put my rifle in a simple case with 40 rounds and keep it in my truck and it goes everywhere I go. Repair parts can be found at Numrich Gun Parts.
Hawgleg44  [Team Member]
11/10/2011 10:06:46 PM
Originally Posted By WatchDog762:
..............FR8, correct me if I'm wrong, but it really isn't made for the modern loading of 7.62x51 NATO. I believe it was made for the reduced CETME loading.........


You are thinking of the FR7. The FR7 was manufactured on the M93/95 small ring Mauser action, which was not designed for the higher pressure of the modern 7.62x51/.308 Win. The FR8 was manufactured on the M98 large ring Mauser action, fully capable of handling the 7.62x51 and much more.

Anaxes  [Member]
11/10/2011 11:01:43 PM
The Norwegian 7.62 Mauser conversions are probably the nicest I've ever handled or fired, including near the full range of Enfield rifles. They're not especially cheap here, probably not in America, either, but I don't think you would regret purchasing one. Don't you get cheap 7.62 Enfields? They're two-a-penny here, and usually in heavy target configuration. Apart from Ishapore, I don't remember any carbines in 7.62, but there are No.4 Mk 2 rifles - bit lengthy for a vehicle.
LoadedDrum  [Team Member]
11/11/2011 8:13:11 AM
This thread has my interest.
Schleprock  [Member]
11/11/2011 11:16:20 AM

MANN ACCURACY DEVICE

ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE
R034 Mann Accuracy Device
Caliber 7.6 (.308)
$500
S&H $22.95 per device
In November 1999 the CMP received a few Mann Accuracy Barrels from the Army. These were considered rare and were auctioned for bids of between $600 to over $1,000. We have recently come into possession of a few hundred more of these barrels and are offering them for sale. These barrels are mounted on M1903A3 receivers. Most of them appear to be unused, but all show some wear and tear on outside surfaces.




hh47  [Member]
11/11/2011 10:09:09 PM
Originally Posted By Schleprock:

http://www.odcmp.com/Sales/images/MannBarrel.jpg

MANN ACCURACY DEVICE

ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE
R034 Mann Accuracy Device
Caliber 7.6 (.308)
$500
S&H $22.95 per device
[div]In November 1999 the CMP received a few Mann Accuracy Barrels from the Army. These were considered rare and were auctioned for bids of between $600 to over $1,000. We have recently come into possession of a few hundred more of these barrels and are offering them for sale. These barrels are mounted on M1903A3 receivers. Most of them appear to be unused, but all show some wear and tear on outside surfaces.




Was about to recommend this myself. I've seen a couple bench rest/F class guns built up from these Mann devices. Reprofile the barrel, custom stock, timney trigger, and they can become pretty nice sticks. Wouldn't feel bad about modding them into a 7.62x51 either- not something I'd usually do to a complete 1903.

JohnRippert  [Member]
11/11/2011 10:14:06 PM
FR-8, hands down.

My Enfield 2A is great, but too big for a truck gun. Israeli K98 would only be two inches shorter. The ones I've seen have that "rode hard put up wet" look. The FR-8 is a true carbine. Short, handy and in the case of mine, accurate.


100 yds, Port surplus. 3 sighters at bottom with 2 adjustment shots above. 5 rounds under 3 inches is pretty good for me shooting. The recoil is not bad either. I was expecting more.





B44T  [Member]
11/11/2011 10:26:00 PM
My vote in order


Springfield carbine
FR8

then the others.
Enforcer  [Team Member]
11/11/2011 10:46:28 PM
Originally Posted By WpnsMan:
As part of my of caliber reduction/ammunition consolidation plan as well as my quest for a compatible “Truck Gun” I would like some input on 7.62x51 bolt guns. I am familiar with about everything currently or previously out there but, would like some input as to the +/-‘s members have with the various platforms.

My requirements are that it must be capable of rapid reloading via stripper clips. That leaves 99% of the commercial offerings out. In the future I may also forward mount either an RDS or low powered optic to achieve a budget Scout Rifle, as there are currently mounting options out there for most surplus actions. I would prefer receiver mounted peep sights as most forward optic mounts available utilize the barrel mounted rear sight base which negates the possibility of back up irons. I would like to keep it as affordable as possible. Though I have a plan for something semi-custom if nothing out there is easily adaptable to my wants/needs.

These are the options I am currently considering in no particular order;

Israeli K98: Basically meets most of my requirements except receiver peep sights. Finding one in anything other than the current poor/fair condition with a decent bore is next to impossible without spending stupid money. Anything approaching very good/excellent would be too valuable as a collector for my purposes. IIRC, at one time there were Norwegian barrels available in 7.62 as well as .30-06. One of those in 7.62 could always be screwed into any K98 and achieve the same results.

Spanish FR8: Has most features I’m looking for but, prices for nice examples are getting high. Not wild about the straight bolt handle though I’m sure any bent ‘98 bolt that gages acceptably would rectify that. FR7’s (93/95) actions need not apply.

Ishapore 2A/2A1 Enfields: Probably the easiest to find and most affordable option out there. The 12 round magazine is a plus though replacements can be finicky since they were not intended to be used with multiple spares as we do today. I only wish the Indians would have used the No.4,Mk1 action instead of a No.1,Mk III. If these had the receiver mounted peep sights of the No.4 they would be perfect. As is, there is no easy way to mount a peep on a No.1 that I know of. Converting a No.4 to 7.62 is possible but, would be cost prohibitive as L39 parts are as rare and expensive as hen’s teeth.

My custom plan revolves around a Springfield ‘03A3 action re-barreled to 7.62x51 with an 18” barrel threaded 5/8x24 and a XS or custom barrel mounted optics rail. Just need to find a previously Bubba’d example to use as a donor. While ‘03’s in general are expensive compared to the other candidates, NIW repair parts are still relatively cheap and plentiful when compared to used parts for the other platforms.

So, give me your input,

Wpns Man



You are asking a lot; there really is no such animal, unless you are willing to fork out $400+ on a $150-200 mil surp rifle. Buy a Ruger GSR and be done with it; the extra $100 investment is well worth it, while avoiding the wait and head ache. I have two 6.5x55 m96 swedish mauser scouts with a total of $350 each investment(includes finish; scope and mounts). The only sacrifice is the caliber. (which I don't think is a sacrifice). If you are set on a 7.62x51 mil surp rifle, waiting on you to convert to a scout........you'll be waiting a long time ..... just like the rest of us. (I know, I've been waiting for 15+ years.... found it in the Ruger GSR; you'll be money and frustration ahead if you just break down and buy it).

M96 6.5x55 scout




Ruger GSR .308




BTW stripper clips are way over rated; why mess with them when you have DBM's

Read this before you get all hung up on what you think are "scout rifle" requirements.

Close Inspection of Jeff Coopers Scout Rifle Definition

GNRNR  [Team Member]
11/12/2011 6:40:55 PM
Originally Posted By Hawgleg44:
Originally Posted By WatchDog762:
..............FR8, correct me if I'm wrong, but it really isn't made for the modern loading of 7.62x51 NATO. I believe it was made for the reduced CETME loading.........


You are thinking of the FR7. The FR7 was manufactured on the M93/95 small ring Mauser action, which was not designed for the higher pressure of the modern 7.62x51/.308 Win. The FR8 was manufactured on the M98 large ring Mauser action, fully capable of handling the 7.62x51 and much more.



False, This is the same kind of myth that surrounds the 2a Enfield, Both are BS. Neither FR7 or FR8 were every designed around the 7.62 Cetme
White labrotories has proved the small ring spanish mausers more than exeed 7.62 nato pressures

http://forums.gunbroker.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=400332
45-Seventy  [Member]
11/13/2011 8:27:59 PM
If you could go a little heavier... How about a "Mini-G" in .308?

Throw an Ultimak on there and some forward glass and you're set.

Mini-G
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/14/2011 10:26:52 AM
Thanks for the replies so far,

Noname, thanks for the link to the barrels.

tangeant, I was unaware of the Chilean 1912/61 carbines. Thanks for the heads up, I'll check into this option.

Schleprock, I missed the boat on the CMP's last round of 03A3 stripped receivers and didn't see the Mann devices. Yeah, this would be a great start for my A3 carbine project. Don't worry, I will only use a stripped receiver or something previously Bubba'd for this project. One of my goals is to avoid any permanent modification to the receiver so that it can be returned to an original configuration if I go the 03A3 route.

Originally Posted By Enforcer:
You are asking a lot; there really is no such animal, unless you are willing to fork out $400+ on a $150-200 mil surp rifle. Buy a Ruger GSR and be done with it; the extra $100 investment is well worth it, while avoiding the wait and head ache. I have two 6.5x55 m96 swedish mauser scouts with a total of $350 each investment(includes finish; scope and mounts). The only sacrifice is the caliber. (which I don't think is a sacrifice). If you are set on a 7.62x51 mil surp rifle, waiting on you to convert to a scout........you'll be waiting a long time ..... just like the rest of us. (I know, I've been waiting for 15+ years.... found it in the Ruger GSR; you'll be money and frustration ahead if you just break down and buy it).

BTW stripper clips are way over rated; why mess with them when you have DBM's

Read this before you get all hung up on what you think are "scout rifle" requirements.

Close Inspection of Jeff Coopers Scout Rifle Definition


I know none of the rifles mentioned meet my requirements as is. The possible exception being the FR8 as it would require the least amount of modifications. I am looking for a basic platform to modify to my needs. I.E. whatever it is will be shortened, threaded and may get a XS Scout mount but, will primarily be an iron sighted carbine. Though I'm glad you know my background and abilities better than I do.

I have plenty of experience from several total restorations and ground up builds for myself and others. I hear you on cost but that is not the driving factor. I want a carbine built on an available military action in a more readily available caliber that I already shoot. Something Retro/Modern I guess. I also have a pretty good stash of '03 parts if I go this route.

I am well aware of Col. Cooper’s Scout rifle concept as well as others interpretation of it. Building a Scout Rifle by anyone’s definition will be coincidental to my needs. I prefer the use of stripper clips to detachable mags for this project. A bandoleer with some stripper clips is more compact and convenient than a couple spare magazines banging around or, in separate pouches that I have to attach to something else. I like the Ruger GSR over-all but there are some details I don’t.

Your M96 is very nicely done and along the lines of what I’m after,

Wpns Man
mike_nds  [Dealer]
11/14/2011 11:32:53 AM
If you are set on a Mauser (my favorite) go buy some pre-sporterized thing at a shop and rebarrel it to .308.

Cole Dist has brand new Norwegian 98k barrels in .308.

Click on "parts"

http://www.coledistributing.com/

Schleprock  [Member]
11/14/2011 6:36:10 PM

Originally Posted By WpnsMan:

Schleprock, I missed the boat on the CMP's last round of 03A3 stripped receivers and didn't see the Mann devices. Yeah, this would be a great start for my A3 carbine project. Don't worry, I will only use a stripped receiver or something previously Bubba'd for this project. One of my goals is to avoid any permanent modification to the receiver so that it can be returned to an original configuration if I go the 03A3 route.

Wpns Man

Define "Bubba'd"......

I've got a handful of 03A3 stripped drill rifle barreled receivers. LOL.

white32golf  [Member]
11/14/2011 9:00:57 PM


Yugo 48 reborn as a 16'' .308 "Scout". Loud as hell but very accurate. Good truck gun, light and well balanced.
rlc  [Team Member]
11/14/2011 10:27:53 PM
you know I know a few bubba's, they may have something they can part with,


let me know


and we need to do some beer
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 9:51:37 AM
Originally Posted By Schleprock:
Define "Bubba'd"......

I've got a handful of 03A3 stripped drill rifle barreled receivers. LOL.



Bubba’d - A military surplus firearm that has been altered from its original configuration; usually accomplished in a less than professional manner with inadequate tools for the job by those with more imagination than ability, resulting in a less than aesthetically pleasing end state. (Not to be confused with a tastefully done sporting rifle using a military action as the basis.) Wpns Man

Just looking for something that has been previously altered as I will NOT modify a complete as-issued U.S. service rifle.

Likewise, I wouldn’t feel bad about re-barreling an otherwise unserviceable Mauser due to bore condition if it would return it to a useful life.

Originally Posted By rlc:
you know I know a few bubba's, they may have something they can part with,

let me know

and we need to do some beer


Email inbound, and you read my mind.

Wpns Man
jdubya87  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 10:28:13 AM
Originally Posted By Schleprock:

http://www.odcmp.com/Sales/images/MannBarrel.jpg

MANN ACCURACY DEVICE

ITEM # DESCRIPTION PRICE
R034 Mann Accuracy Device
Caliber 7.6 (.308)
$500
S&H $22.95 per device
In November 1999 the CMP received a few Mann Accuracy Barrels from the Army. These were considered rare and were auctioned for bids of between $600 to over $1,000. We have recently come into possession of a few hundred more of these barrels and are offering them for sale. These barrels are mounted on M1903A3 receivers. Most of them appear to be unused, but all show some wear and tear on outside surfaces.






I really like this idea. And I have the Gunsite scout, or, rather, my wife does. Anybody know if this has provisions for sights already? Anybody gone this route?
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 11:08:48 AM
The picture appears to be a standard ’03 receiver to me. If it is an A3 they have removed the rear sight. I sent an email to CMP yesterday asking a couple of questions. Namely are these complete A3 actions and is the receiver unaltered as in the male dovetail on the receiver bridge for the A3 rear sight is still intact. If it is, A3 sight assemblies are readily available and not very expensive.

I haven’t gotten a response yet.

Wpns Man
jdubya87  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 11:17:01 AM
Originally Posted By WpnsMan:
The picture appears to be a standard ’03 receiver to me. If it is an A3 they have removed the rear sight. I sent an email to CMP yesterday asking a couple of questions. Namely are these complete A3 actions and is the receiver unaltered as in the male dovetail on the receiver bridge for the A3 rear sight is still intact. If it is, A3 sight assemblies are readily available and not very expensive.

I haven’t gotten a response yet.

Wpns Man


That would be ideal. Its too bad that the original thread from the CMP forum is gone. I remember some outstanding pictures. If nothing else, one could always leave a raised block during the barrel reprofile to mount an XS rail, either full length (seems like this would make iron sight possible), or of the scout variety. I know there are benchrest type stocks available, but for my purposes I think I'd just get a repro CMP stock set and do some glass bedding. Biggest thing I can remember about this setup is that as received, these rifles will not feed from the magazine, ie. single shot. Can't for the life of me remember exactly what needs to be done to retrofit.
nhsport  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 11:49:26 AM
I recomend that you don't get absolutely hung up on mil-surps

Keep a look out for used bolt action hunting guns.

Initial cost is likely going to be slightly higher than the mil-surp but total cost for the project might be more reasonable

With a comercial gun the barrels will have a length and contour closer to the goal and aftermarket triggers,stocks and optics mounting
could be more straight foward and reasonable.

I myself keep looking at the whole scout scope thing and understand the advantages it allows when compareing it to a standard hunting scope setup.
When you pull off that 6X12 moon scope and replace it with a high quality 1.5X4 in the conventional location it will do much the same as a scout scope.
jdubya87  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 12:02:56 PM
Originally Posted By nhsport:
I recomend that you don't get absolutely hung up on mil-surps

Keep a look out for used bolt action hunting guns.

Initial cost is likely going to be slightly higher than the mil-surp but total cost for the project might be more reasonable

With a comercial gun the barrels will have a length and contour closer to the goal and aftermarket triggers,stocks and optics mounting
could be more straight foward and reasonable.

I myself keep looking at the whole scout scope thing and understand the advantages it allows when compareing it to a standard hunting scope setup.
When you pull off that 6X12 moon scope and replace it with a high quality 1.5X4 in the conventional location it will do much the same as a scout scope.


All true. For my purposes, I'd be a lot better off starting with a savage scout and modding as needed. I may do that. But sometimes, its more fun this way.

Ie:



scatterbrains  [Member]
11/15/2011 2:33:11 PM
My vote is FR8 all the way, if turned bolt is huge deal get a bent mauser handle and be done may have to inlet the stock a bit.

Mine shoots great and it has a cool storage tube
mike_nds  [Dealer]
11/15/2011 3:37:58 PM
Originally Posted By jdubya87:
Originally Posted By nhsport:
I recomend that you don't get absolutely hung up on mil-surps

Keep a look out for used bolt action hunting guns.

Initial cost is likely going to be slightly higher than the mil-surp but total cost for the project might be more reasonable

With a comercial gun the barrels will have a length and contour closer to the goal and aftermarket triggers,stocks and optics mounting
could be more straight foward and reasonable.

I myself keep looking at the whole scout scope thing and understand the advantages it allows when compareing it to a standard hunting scope setup.
When you pull off that 6X12 moon scope and replace it with a high quality 1.5X4 in the conventional location it will do much the same as a scout scope.


All true. For my purposes, I'd be a lot better off starting with a savage scout and modding as needed. I may do that. But sometimes, its more fun this way.

Ie:

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm15/jdubya87/IMG_1948.jpg



Is that a Shuff's Mini-G, and how does it shoot?
jdubya87  [Team Member]
11/15/2011 3:43:53 PM
Originally Posted By mike_nds:
Originally Posted By jdubya87:
Originally Posted By nhsport:
I recomend that you don't get absolutely hung up on mil-surps

Keep a look out for used bolt action hunting guns.

Initial cost is likely going to be slightly higher than the mil-surp but total cost for the project might be more reasonable

With a comercial gun the barrels will have a length and contour closer to the goal and aftermarket triggers,stocks and optics mounting
could be more straight foward and reasonable.

I myself keep looking at the whole scout scope thing and understand the advantages it allows when compareing it to a standard hunting scope setup.
When you pull off that 6X12 moon scope and replace it with a high quality 1.5X4 in the conventional location it will do much the same as a scout scope.


All true. For my purposes, I'd be a lot better off starting with a savage scout and modding as needed. I may do that. But sometimes, its more fun this way.

Ie:

http://i292.photobucket.com/albums/mm15/jdubya87/IMG_1948.jpg



Is that a Shuff's Mini-G, and how does it shoot?


Yes. With new 308 barrel, ram line stock, 308 battlecomp, ultimak scout rail, adjustable gas cylinder, etc. I love it. I'm doing doubletaps on stuff with 308. Its awesome. Kinda loud though. Haven't really had a chance to test accuracy, but I'm hitting soda bottles at 100 yds with iron sights, so I'm really pleased so far. Only real complaint is the LOP on the ramline, but that's going to get better when I cut it down a little bit. Also have a stormwerkz rail I'm going to add to the stock for a magpul afg. Still not sure on optics.
AzNooB  [Member]
11/16/2011 4:25:46 PM
With the money you're spending, what's wrong with a Saiga .308? I find the scout rifle concept to be outdated with the availability of lightweight and decently accurate semi autos today.
KRONIIK  [Member]
11/16/2011 6:29:27 PM
Just a thought to consider, regarding your desire to use stripper clips.
I know that some of the competitive shooting suppliers (Sinclair, Creedmoor, Champion's Choice???) used to offer, and probably still do, a stripper-clip "fixture" that screwed onto the rear receiver scope-mount holes of popular bolt guns such as the Remington 700 and Winchester model 70, to enable the use of Mauser-type stripper clips in those rifles for rapid-fire stages in certain events.

That would open up some practical options for you if you can find one...
rlc  [Team Member]
11/16/2011 6:50:18 PM
Originally Posted By KRONIIK:
Just a thought to consider, regarding your desire to use stripper clips.
I know that some of the competitive shooting suppliers (Sinclair, Creedmoor, Champion's Choice???) used to offer, and probably still do, a stripper-clip "fixture" that screwed onto the rear receiver scope-mount holes of popular bolt guns such as the Remington 700 and Winchester model 70, to enable the use of Mauser-type stripper clips in those rifles for rapid-fire stages in certain events.

That would open up some practical options for you if you can find one...


you and I think alike,

tho, I was going to suggest just milling a clip slot in a 700/70 action (most of the highpower shooters I know do this instead of the bolt on gadget)

and I think Champ Choice still offers it, if not I'll bet brownells does,,

KRONIIK  [Member]
11/17/2011 7:32:07 AM
Originally Posted By rlc:
Originally Posted By KRONIIK:
Just a thought to consider, regarding your desire to use stripper clips.
I know that some of the competitive shooting suppliers (Sinclair, Creedmoor, Champion's Choice???) used to offer, and probably still do, a stripper-clip "fixture" that screwed onto the rear receiver scope-mount holes of popular bolt guns such as the Remington 700 and Winchester model 70, to enable the use of Mauser-type stripper clips in those rifles for rapid-fire stages in certain events.

That would open up some practical options for you if you can find one...


you and I think alike,

tho, I was going to suggest just milling a clip slot in a 700/70 action (most of the highpower shooters I know do this instead of the bolt on gadget)

and I think Champ Choice still offers it, if not I'll bet brownells does,,



I used to dabble in NRA Highpower, but have been out of the loop for years.
I didn't realize that it was practical to mill stripper clip slots in a 700 receiver.

Sounds like maybe an hour of careful work with a couple files...

Good to know!
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/17/2011 5:17:42 PM
Originally Posted By AzNooB:
With the money you're spending, what's wrong with a Saiga .308? I find the scout rifle concept to be outdated with the availability of lightweight and decently accurate semi autos today.


Nothing wrong with a Saiga .308, in fact I own a 21” Saiga that is my current MBR/DMRish project. Just waiting on RS Regulate to produce their AKS 30mm scope mount so I can finish it.

The purpose of this project is to have another platform that conforms with my ammo consolidation plan in a simpler, less evil looking package that I can literally leave in my truck and not feel guilty about. Hopefully, for half the cost of one of my semi-autos. Plus, I just like the idea of giving new life to some previously Bubba’d orphan as I like a good project now and then. So, it doesn’t have to make sense as far as easier or, most cost effective.

Originally Posted By rlc:
Originally Posted By KRONIIK:
Just a thought to consider, regarding your desire to use stripper clips.
I know that some of the competitive shooting suppliers (Sinclair, Creedmoor, Champion's Choice???) used to offer, and probably still do, a stripper-clip "fixture" that screwed onto the rear receiver scope-mount holes of popular bolt guns such as the Remington 700 and Winchester model 70, to enable the use of Mauser-type stripper clips in those rifles for rapid-fire stages in certain events.

That would open up some practical options for you if you can find one...


you and I think alike,

tho, I was going to suggest just milling a clip slot in a 700/70 action (most of the highpower shooters I know do this instead of the bolt on gadget)

and I think Champ Choice still offers it, if not I'll bet brownells does,,


Thought about going that route also,

Wpns Man
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/22/2011 5:39:56 PM
I heard back from the CMP today,

Regarding the Mann devices in .308 on 03A3 receivers:

"The barrels are 22.5” long and the receivers have not been modified."

Would seem like a waste to turn off all that extra barrel for my uses but, $500 may well be a better deal than finding a donor and buying a barrel turned to my specifications and installed.

Wpns Man

Quake_Guy  [Member]
11/22/2011 10:45:40 PM
there are no good options unless you spend as much or more than a Ruger GSR. Maybe you can find a used Savage scout somewhere cheap.

Honestly if you want a good inexpensive PC looking truck gun, get a 30-30 or 12 ga pump. If it really floats your boat, you can get a scout rail for the Marlin lever actions.
acman145acp  [Team Member]
11/23/2011 9:30:29 PM
It probably doesn't meet your requirements but if you find one cheap and don't buy it your doing yourself a great injustice.
These were converted to 308 and imported around ~60's iirc.
It's my favorite open sight "bolt action" gun.


mike_nds  [Dealer]
11/23/2011 10:09:08 PM
It's pretty easy to do something like this with a milsurp or a commercial gun.

I did this one for a friend many years ago.



WpnsMan  [Team Member]
11/24/2011 9:07:09 AM
Originally Posted By Quake_Guy:
there are no good options unless you spend as much or more than a Ruger GSR. Maybe you can find a used Savage scout somewhere cheap.

Honestly if you want a good inexpensive PC looking truck gun, get a 30-30 or 12 ga pump. If it really floats your boat, you can get a scout rail for the Marlin lever actions.


Thanks, but you have missed most of the objectives of my post.

Originally Posted By acman145acp:
It probably doesn't meet your requirements but if you find one cheap and don't buy it your doing yourself a great injustice.
These were converted to 308 and imported around ~60's iirc.
It's my favorite open sight "bolt action" gun.

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h54/acman145acp/guns/001.jpg


My first encounter with Swiss straight pulls was also one of these when I was a kid. One of my brothers friends had one and I was amazed at the workmanship. His was also converted from a 1911 action as opposed to a K31. The barrel was a cut down/rechambered 03A3.

Originally Posted By mike_nds:
It's pretty easy to do something like this with a milsurp or a commercial gun.

I did this one for a friend many years ago.

http://www.hunt101.com/data/500/Scout-1.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/data/500/Scout-2.jpg
http://www.hunt101.com/data/500/Scout-3.jpg


Mike,

I have seen those pictures in a couple of your other post. Honestly they inspired my original intent of what I want to do. That rifle should serve as a standard for anyone who wants to do a project like this as opposed to just buying a Ruger, etc, etc. It has clean lines and looks simple and efficient.

Wpns Man

SRT_312  [Member]
11/24/2011 10:27:53 AM
Sporterizing a milsurp makes no sense whatsoever these days.

The Ruger GSR is everything you are looking for. Stripper clips bring the suck, in comparison to the DBM the Ruger offers. If you are intent on modifying something, a cheap Rem 700 SPS, with an Atlasworxs or PT&G Det Box Mag, have a smith chop the barrel, and call it good.
RABID  [Team Member]
12/11/2011 8:04:24 PM
Got a Chilean M1912 short rifle when I was 16 that was converted to 7.62 by putting a two groove (Im thinking sprigfield 03) barrel on it in the 60s. Outside was dinged to hell and had greyish patina on the reciever (they were finished in white originally) Barrel had rough turning on it under the wood, but 100% blueing and bore was mint. Thats the only milsurp .308 boltgun I got. Shoots great even with those barleycorn and notch mauser sights. Id get one of those if you can find it.
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
12/11/2011 9:26:14 PM
After sorting through my stash of ’03 parts I decided to go the ‘03A3 route.

I found a receiver for a good price and bought it. FedEx tracking said it arrived at my FFL yesterday. I’ll go by tomorrow and pick it up and hopefully have time to post a picture or two.

While I don't have everything on hand, I do have the major assemblies (Bolt and Trigger Housing). One of my friends has the odd bits and pieces I don’t. Though after searching on-line for prices and availability, even if I had to buy everything outright the ’03 is substantially cheaper to build compared to other platforms so, it just made sense. The barrel will be the biggest outlay of funds but, it would be so regardless of any action I use. I.E, most barrel makers charge the same by contour regardless if it is threaded for a Springfield or a Mauser. Doing the math I can get what I want and installed for substantially less than the price of a CMP Mann device that would require major work.

Wpns Man
WpnsMan  [Team Member]
12/12/2011 8:48:09 PM
So it begins, James River Armory stripped receiver,







Overall, looks like a nice receiver though the finish appears to be Dura-Coat instead of or, over the original park. Not that it matters as the whole thing will be re-parked and possibly Dura/Cera-Coated when it is completed. Though that may be awhile.

Wpns Man
mike_nds  [Dealer]
12/13/2011 9:47:14 AM
Originally Posted By SRT_312:
Sporterizing a milsurp makes no sense whatsoever these days.

The Ruger GSR is everything you are looking for. Stripper clips bring the suck, in comparison to the DBM the Ruger offers. If you are intent on modifying something, a cheap Rem 700 SPS, with an Atlasworxs or PT&G Det Box Mag, have a smith chop the barrel, and call it good.


For the most part I agree with you, the GSR is a great "off the shelf" option.

However, if a guy has the skill set and the tools he can build a really cool rifle for half the cost with a Mauser.

Epyon  [Team Member]
12/14/2011 1:00:51 AM
I'd be interested in doing something like this as well, but it would be the first serious project like this I've undertaken.

I'm assuming I'd need a gunsmith to mate the receiver/barrel, and maybe install the sights, but I should be able to do the rest myself, correct?

1903 bolts should work off the shelf with .308 ammo, yes? What sort of pittfalls would I need to watch out for?

Gamma762  [Team Member]
12/14/2011 3:11:11 AM
I think there is a new importer for the Australian new production Enfields in 7.62x51.
jdubya87  [Team Member]
12/14/2011 3:55:59 AM
Originally Posted By Gamma762:
I think there is a new importer for the Australian new production Enfields in 7.62x51.


That sounds awesome!!! Source?
mike_nds  [Dealer]
12/14/2011 11:26:52 AM
Originally Posted By jdubya87:
Originally Posted By Gamma762:
I think there is a new importer for the Australian new production Enfields in 7.62x51.


That sounds awesome!!! Source?


I'm in for an L42A1 clone.

Gamma762  [Team Member]
12/14/2011 2:05:12 PM
Originally Posted By mike_nds:
Originally Posted By jdubya87:
Originally Posted By Gamma762:
I think there is a new importer for the Australian new production Enfields in 7.62x51.

That sounds awesome!!! Source?

I'm in for an L42A1 clone.

I did a little websearching and couldn't find a current US distributor, although I was sure I had read a while back that there was one. I know Marstar is selling them in Canada. Maybe you guys could import them Mike
Here's the L42ish version: http://members.storm.ca/~aiarms/M10-B2.shtm
jdubya87  [Team Member]
12/14/2011 2:28:20 PM
Originally Posted By Gamma762:
Originally Posted By mike_nds:
Originally Posted By jdubya87:
Originally Posted By Gamma762:
I think there is a new importer for the Australian new production Enfields in 7.62x51.

That sounds awesome!!! Source?

I'm in for an L42A1 clone.

I did a little websearching and couldn't find a current US distributor, although I was sure I had read a while back that there was one. I know Marstar is selling them in Canada. Maybe you guys could import them Mike
Here's the L42ish version: http://members.storm.ca/~aiarms/M10-B2.shtm


I like this idea.