Southerncross on bolt rifle picture thread wrote:New guy here;
I'm working on an Argentine Mauser project (originally 8mm of course) that we're rebuilding into a 450 hunting rifle with some character. Currently the barrel is off, the new blank is in hand, and we're trying to decide what stock or chassis to go with this build as well as barrel length.
I have a couple questions for you guys that have done these; what is the go to barrel length? I was plannin on 16"-18" and threaded. Mine will probably have a suppressor mounted shortly after I finish. Also, what profile are most people running? My original plan was for a fluted bull.
Thoughts?
Southerncross-
First, welcome to the 450B forum! It's particularly nice to see another member interested in what a bolt rifle chambered in the cartridge can do.
(I hope you aren't upset at relocating your questions here. Instead of being buried at the end of the picture thread, they're out in plain view with a unique title.)
More helpful, specific, and detailed answers are likely to be posted if you could explain the specific hunting mission(s) you have planned for this rifle.
For example, I'm really happy with the standard light sporter contour 20" barrel on the 1903 Springfield that is pictured at the start of the picture thread. It's intended to be a carrying hunting rifle for moderately close-range shots. I'm also happy with the 26" truck-axle barrel on my Model 70 bench rifle, which I've used for trying out various loads: A Second Bolt Rifle
Some of the other bolt rifles discussed on the forum are very different from these two, and will be used for different purposes. After you tell us your plans for the rifle, the pros on the forum likely can and will offer pretty good advice.
A question: What Argentine Mauser action are you using? M1891? M1909?
Forum member wvcruffler built his bolt rifle on a M1891 Argentine action, and it came out looking pretty spiffy: Photos of 1891 Mauser build. For many good reasons, the M1909 Argentine action is a favored for lots of custom rifles, and if you are starting with one of those, then I'm envious.
I'm also curious about your stating the rifle was "8mm of course". I had thought that most Argentine Mausers were chambered in 7.65x53mm. Is this a special production model? What are the markings on it?
Thanks, and I hope we can help.
--Bob