I'm thinking of sporterizing an old Mauser I've had laying around for years. Is this action strong enough to handle some of the more modern cartidges or is it relegated to lower pressures?

If you are going to do it do it right. Strip it down and start with the action. I would get new bottom metal, cock on open conversion, model 70 style safety, and a new bolt handle. I like Shilen barrels but there are others also. I would get a nice piece of English walnut and have someone turn it.

I would be tempted to chamber for the original 6.5x55. It is a great round and it will need no modification for feeding.

Componets for a m96 are going to be a little harder to find and be slightly higher than the same for a m98, but you should get along fine.

quote:

Originally posted by pointblank:
I'm thinking of sporterizing an old Mauser I've had laying around for years. Is this action strong enough to handle some of the more modern cartidges or is it relegated to lower pressures?

If it is all original, matching # etc. don't cut it up If not 6.5x55 is a great cart. or 7x57 I have seen them in .308 also.
good luck on your adventure.

dilema time:

sell the swede and start with a '98 action and build a 6.5 X 55 or cut the swede to make a sporter?

It's your gun so do as you see fit.

I personally think the '96 swede can handle strong loads and wouldn't hesitate to modify it if that was your preference.

They are smooth and have a reputation for accuracy.

Have a ball.

where would a guy look for custom bottom metal for a 96 or earlier?