I am wondering if anyone knows of a good compitent gun smith that can work on most if not all makes of factory bolt action rifles, as well as Mausers, located in eithor the northern half of Illinois, or anywhere near south east Indiana. Or, if not, please recamend any good all around smith with rifles.

Thanks, Art.

Call Steve Downes at Fox Valley Custom Firearms, Ltd., 630-922-3745. His shop is in Plainfield, Il., near Naperville, and he's very good. A true smith; not a parts changer.

Based on many recommendations, including the gunshops in Plainfield, I've used Fuzzy's Gunsmithing in Reddick,Il. Just southeast of Dwight about 8 miles. 815-265-2526. He did a 35 Whelen on an FN action for me last year and I am delighted.

Fuzzy is particularly fond of working with Mausers and will gladly ( and honestly ) discuss any project over the phone. If you go to see him don't expect the usual 5 minute appraisal ; he'll want to talk guns with ya and shoot the breeze in general, so plan on extra time.