I've got a really slick Mark X action with standard bolt face that I was considering using for a 458 Lott build. What should one expect to pay to have the action opened up, bolt face altered, and feeding work done(excluding the cost of bottom metal)? I had one smith quote $1,000 to $1500 for the above work. That seemed a bit ridiculous to me, but I'm no expert. I'm just a kid wanting a functional gun, not a museum piece. Currently my plan is to find a used Winchester Classic in 458 and rechamber it, but I'm putting together a contingency plan in case I can't find a suitable/affordable donor. Your input and recommendations are appreciated.
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Posts: 668 | Location: Missouri | Registered: 15 June 2014
Well I would be talking to a different smith. Find someone with a mag MKX and swap bolts. I never had an issue with feeding on a MKX with a normal magnum like the 458-7mag etc.
As usual just my $.02 Paul K
Posts: 12881 | Location: Mexico, MO | Registered: 02 April 2001
Good info Duane. I have heard the Mark X's were hard. About the speed lock, I purposely avoid those actions(bolts). I don't like relying on a proprietary replacement part. What about the commercial FN actions? I've got a few of those...
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Posts: 668 | Location: Missouri | Registered: 15 June 2014
While you can make standard Mausers take long cartridges, to what extent would the Mark X conversion make sense? The 425 Westley Richards might at least use the standard bolt face and fit the action length as is but any conversion away from the original case-body shape can throw up feeding problems to make the Zimbabwe PH trainers shudder.
Posts: 5326 | Location: Melbourne, Australia | Registered: 31 March 2009
I bought a 458 Mag Whitworth last year and had the same plan. I came to my senses when I calculated the cost and effort just to get a few more fps from a Lott and stayed with the 458 Win Mag. I'm shooting 450 gr NFs at 2,225 fps and have more room to go on powder and fps if I wanted, but that's more than enough for any dangerous game.
Now, it would be nice in the Whitworths took more than three down on the 458, but not worth the extra $$$ to get more.
Least expensive and quickest route? Buy a CZ 458 Lott.
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