I finally got the rifle, it ended up being a Mauser 98 action 1945 BRNO manufactured in Czechoslovakia under German occupation. I spoke to the gun shop once I received it and they flat out denied telling me it was a ZKK 602! I will post a picture as soon as I can work out how to.

If I didn't already have a CZ in 416 Rigby I believe I would have to have a 404J-boy built.

Rich

Do we assume the Czechs did not go into sabotage mode in 1945 as the Nazi's were on the way out?

Have there been any reports of late WWII BRNO Mauser defects?

If it is a good standard length Mauser 98 action, load it prudently and be happy with a fine rifle. Do not load it to "African Sheep Rifle" levels.

nt,

Congratulations on the new rifle! Sounds like you have a real prize.

1945 vintage makes it interesting and if the pictures don't show it could you please tell us what is stamped on the receiver? "VZ-24" or a commercial designation? This will also make it easy to determine if your rifle was made with a standard size action.

note: "BRNO or CZ?" can get complex

analog_peninsula, sorry I don't have any advice for you!

My vote would be for the 404, even though the 416 Dakota is a technically better cartridge. The Jeffery has been around a helluva lot longer, and is waaaay more popular in any circle than the Dakota cartridges. Brass, while still difficult, would be easier to find, and you would have but a few more choices in factory ammo. All that, plus the 404 is from the old school, and has proven itself time and time again.