quote:
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Originally posted by JBelk:

The VZ-24s are good actions but it's VERY rare to find one in really good shape.

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Jack, When you say it's hard to find a VZ in good shape. What exactly do you mean? My guess is that the re-arsenalling process has taken its toll. Especially in regards to polishing/buffing.

I say this because of the 5 VZ's I'm currently working on none have any structural problems, no setback or galling, etc. But, 4, the one's that had obviously been reblued, had low spots that seem to be the result of bad buffing. Luckily, none of the bolts had been touched. The only one that was straight with regards to exterior finish was the one that had no bluing left. Then there is the fact that most on the market have been scrubbed. I figured this didn't matter quite as much because they are being surface ground anyway.

I also realize that the Post 38-39 produced VZ's are suspect.

Thanks,

Mike

Z1r---

Exactly right. In the 60s there was a batch of surplus VZ-24s made about 1936 with the old style ring marking (VZ-22 style).....those actions were plumb cherry except there was some pitting under the wood line. They were $20 each, three for $50 and REALLY nice, tight, and sharp actions.

I bought one of the current Big 5 Sports VZ-24s that, like yours, is a very nice action with a scrubbed ring but un-buffed bolt.

Every time I buy one I look around to be sure I'm not being set up for a grand larceny charge. They're BY FAR the best gun deal in the universe right now.

Thanks Jack! With all your help I think I'm finally begining to just scratch the surface of all the Mauser intricacies (about like a file glancing off a newly hardened cocking cam.)

So, the 98/22's also on the market would seem to be in the same catagory provided they haven't been arsenalled. They are almost as cheap and none have been scrubbed.

-Mike

[ 03-28-2003, 00:21: Message edited by: z1r ]

z1r---

I'm keeping an eye out for a nice VZ-22.

I like the ring marking and would be tempted to make an open sight rifle just to preserve it.

Jbelk,

I have a beautiful ARgentine that has a perfect crest, untapped, that I am making into an open sighted .416 Taylor just to keep the crest intact. I bought it from one of the gunsmiths at my shop, 150, he had already done the bolt handle, polished it all out, and done some silver soldering on the top of the bolt release and then checked it, very good looking.

Personally I love the 1917 Remington's and Winchesters. I was an idiot about 4 months ago, I had a chance to purchase 2 with good stock, ears ground off, for 300 bucks and passed. Now if I find any that are partially sporterized and are a good price I am going to snatch them up. They are more expensive to make a custom gun off of, but boy they make me happy.

Red