Anyone used a Mauser 66?

I'm picking up a Mauser 66s in a couple of weeks.

Based upon handling it in the shop, I noticed the following:

*They're over-engineered as hell (I think that was the whole point of the M66). They'd probably need more attention and maintenance than say an M98.
*The 'telescopic' bolt mechanism is exceptionally smooth. Like butter.
*They're quite hefty (approx 8.5-9lbs), but they balance nicely.
*They're built very well - old world quality. No alloy or plastic. Just steel & wood.
*They're modular. Basically the bolt action version of a Blaser.
*The action is very compact, which allows for a shorter overall length despite having a 24" barrel.

I'd like to know what they're like accuracy wise, and how they cope with NZ field conditions. How reliable are they?

I've seen very few of them around. Definitely not your standard fare.

Pic off google:

Attachment 120210

Cheers!

I've always liked them but have never held one, what calibre are you getting, new or used, silly dollars or Sako/Weatherby value.

A cobber has a couple (that he shoots but doesn't hunt with). They shoot pretty good and apart from the styling are the equal of an R93 in my opinion (not that that counts for much - either the opinion or R93's haha)

I held one at the range a few years back....must admit that it was hard not to start drooling. The engineering was fascinating to look at and as you say it felt as smooth as butter....

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Originally Posted by nor-west

I've always liked them but have never held one, what calibre are you getting, new or used, silly dollars or Sako/Weatherby value.

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.308 Win.

They don't make them anymore, but I snagged a 2nd hand one in mint condition.

$$ wise, they normally crop up for $3-4k. You can get deluxe/engraved models, but they're in the silly money category.

Something a bit different. :)

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Originally Posted by Tentman

A cobber has a couple (that he shoots but doesn't hunt with). They shoot pretty good and apart from the styling are the equal of an R93 in my opinion (not that that counts for much - either the opinion or R93's haha)

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More like an insult haha.

Frodo

The Mauser 66 is a very fine Rifle. I have one (single set trigger) in .308 in near mint condition, which I use for red deer hunting and have taken a couple of great trophies with.

It is a heavier rifle, but I do like using it. The action is THE SMOOTHEST I have ever used!

I would like to obtain a double-set trigger Mauser 66 one day. I see there is one on TradeMe at present.

Do you mind telling me what you paid for your new one? As you say, really nice Mauser 66's seem to go for between $3000-$4000. Its a lot, but they really are beautiful rifles.

Attachment 121170

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Originally Posted by Copelli

Frodo

The Mauser 66 is a very fine Rifle. I have one (single set trigger) in .308 in near mint condition, which I use for red deer hunting and have taken a couple of great trophies with.

It is a heavier rifle, but I do like using it. The action is THE SMOOTHEST I have ever used!

I would like to obtain a double-set trigger Mauser 66 one day. I see there is one on TradeMe at present.

Do you mind telling me what you paid for your new one? As you say, really nice Mauser 66's seem to go for between $3000-$4000. Its a lot, but they really are beautiful rifles.

Attachment 121170

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Nice stag mate, and sweet rifle!

The M66 I was going to buy is actually the one on TM at present. :/ I defaulted on it - was juggling another purchase and directed my funds elsewhere.

It's in mint condition (stock, action and bore); double set triggers; EAW mounts; Kahles 6x42.

Looks much better in person. The photos online are rubbish.

Frodo, the 66s are getting quite cheap over here now. You can pick them up for under 2K. While supply is low, it appears to exceed demand. While the quality is good, weight and age has caught up, parts would be hard to find if needed.

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Originally Posted by Dicko

Frodo, the 66s are getting quite cheap over here now. You can pick them up for under 2K. While supply is low, it appears to exceed demand. While the quality is good, weight and age has caught up, parts would be hard to find if needed.

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A heavy gun is bad except for when you fire it.