I came across a JC Higgins 30-06 with the HVA action but NOT drilled and tapped for scope bases. Has anyone seen one of these rifles that wasnt drilled and tapped? I was under the impression that the HVA action rifles came after the FN ones so I find it odd.

HVA aka Huskvarna and FN Fabrique National are both basically Mauser type actions as far as I know as are Sears and JC Pennys, the actions were purchased and and companies built rifles around them.. The early guns came with D&T and without as I recall, Ive seen both.Value wise the are about the same unless in prestene condition for collectors, However,I have not seen a Sears or JC Pennys that wasn't D&T as they came later.

They have always been an inexpensive buy and great rifles for the money. that has changed somewhat as their value is going higher and higher..