First off, I've been dripping through Sh!tgun news lately and am more and more set on the idea of putting togather a Mauser actioned long-range rifle. Cheaper than any storebought gun, and something fun to do too. I've settled on using a Czech VZ-24 action I've got, but beyond that I'm in need of some good suggestions-
#1- Chambering? Some considerations here are accuracy at distance (will be zeroing at 300m) and cost of the barrel. I know FAC offers a couple of Mauser barrels in different calibers, both fluted and non fluted, I believe .308 and .30-06 are the two most evident choices out of them. I used to have an 8mm Rem Mag that I loved, using a custom 26" barrel on a 1917 Enfield action. Is there anyone who has a stock of ready-made Mauser threaded barrels in a varity of calibers? I'd also consider 300 Win Mag, or 300 Lapua Mag, or possibly a newer belted magnum.
#2 Stock- I want a synthetic. Centerfire Systems carries that funky, faux-Steyr Scout stock that, sans the monstrosity on top, looks pretty nifty. Anyone have any experience with these? I realy would love an AW style stock, but I think they are hella expensive, and dont come in Mauser. Any other good tactical synthetic stocks for the '98 action? I'd love to find something in that grey sort of splatter-painted non-slip look you see on some Remington 700s
#3 Bolt handle- I want a "butter-knife" setup, wondering if there are any better than the other, or is one of the ones that "Boltman" does, just fine for my purpose?
#4 Bedding- I know people do this alot, and frankly I'm not all that new to it either. I used a nice high-temp Epoxy in my .22wmr that improved its accuracy exponentially, but is it necessairy in a synthetic stock?
#5 Muzzle- Will there be any detriment to accuracy if I have a threaded muzzle? Any good breaks/suppressors out there for a heavy tactical rifle?
#6 Optics- I want a good, moderate to high power optic that isnt going to run me more than $80, any ideas? I plan on using a standard drill-N-tap Mauser rail. Something I can find locally.
#7 Bipod- Something to attach to the front sling swivel stud...Harris still the best?
#8 Other accessories- Thinking about buying a repro 25rnd Mauser Trench Mag and neutering it to give me a slightly larger mag capacity, but nothing outrageous. Does anyone make 5rnd detachable mags for the 98 style action? I know a while ago I saw 3rnders advertised, but I'd like something a tad bit bigger. Also I'd like a neoprene cheek pad with the spare shell holder for the butt stock.
Any other suggestions?
And on to the Cobray...
M11 in 9mm or M12 in .380? Can you even FIND 30 rnd mags for the 380 beyond an act of devine intervention?