Hello again.

Just need to get some info regarding the 'modern day' Dakota(action design features).

How does a Dakota differ from a 'modern day M98' & Pre-64?

Does the Dakota have the = safety shoulder on firing pin, full radius gas blocking shroud, integral recoil lug & one-piece bolt design?

Thanks again. I'm just trying to gather some info for a future rifle

Well, I am not about to tear mine apart to reply, but, by memory, the bolt is two pieces with earlier handles welded on and later ones attached by a ring on it's end, pressed and brazed to the body.

In the 76 action, the more desirable of the two, IMO, you have an action bottom like the Mod. 70. The internal breeching is different and much superior to any Mod. 70, it has a barrel extension that surrounds the case head and is only opened for the extractor cut, IIRC.

This is much like some 98 Mausers and is a fine feature. The shroud does block the left side, but, I would prefer a full-on Mauser type here. I cannot say about the striker and would only say that IF you can find an older Dakota 76 action, it is a FINE piece to start a great custom project on.

For a belted mag., .404 case size or a 9.3 Brenneke, the D-76 action is MADE to suit and is a bot wider than a Classic Mod. 70. There ARE minor problems, but, any good smith can fix these in a couple of hours.