My dad picked up a used Carl Gustav Mauser a while ago for next to nothing. It has the markings "HK 329xxx) which I asume is the serial number. The caliber is 6.5x55. There may be other identifying marks, but I have not pulled the scope off yet to find anything. What is the value in "worn, well-used" condition? How does this action compare to a 98 Mauser for strength? Is it worth rebarreling? Should I just develop a load, resight it, and go shoot something?

Great calibre, good maker, not as strong as a 98 - no third locking lug, about $300 at most sans scope. Get some ammo and go hunting, enjoy as is. Go to >Tradeex site > products > hunting and sporting arms - to view some more 96s etc. --- John303.

I have a Karl Gustav m96. Mine is the military action/barrel in a sporter stock with a bolt modified for scope use (I bought it that way). If the military barrel shoots well, there's no reason to rebarrel.

If not, you could rebarrel to 6.5x55 or 7x57 or something in that class.

The action isn't as strong as a 98, but it's strong enough as long as you don't run any really hot handloads through it. I load 140 grain bullets to ~2550 and 120s to ~2700 for my Swede. Even at those sedate velocities, it drops deer like the hammer of Thor.

Thanks for the help! I think i need to restock it, as the original was broken in half and glued back together. There is an aimpoint or something similar on it. Thanks for the heads up on action strength. I am typically more of an accuracy over speed guy, so finding a reasonable load won't be a big deal. You gentlemen figure that it is an M96, then?

Graham

CG made the M96, Husqvarna made the M38, for the most part. There are a few Husqvarna M96's that were made for their marksmanship program. I have 4
6.5x55's and my son has 1. Great accurate rifle and round.

quote:

Should I just develop a load, resight it, and go shoot something?

Yes just try it!