Two interesting points involving this post subject: no one owned a M-71
so using the 348 Ackley Improved, and no one mentioned PO Ackley
to give him credit.
Ihave two (2) original Model 71s in 348 ACK Improved. Its is worth
every bit of effort-which really only requires re-chambering by a good riflesmith.The brass WILL last longer-but that is a small point. The real benefit known only to owners of this cartridge/rifle combination is that
it will turn the M-71 into a lever action 35 Whelen in power.
It can push a 250 gr bullet to 2400 FPS actual chronographed. I use 270
gr Hawk bullets at about 2350 FPS -and it killed an Alaskan bull moose with one shot.
The current value of Model 71 Winchester rifles in 348WCF really prohibit
alteration. But in the 1950s-it was done. The 1886-M71s are faster in
action than the 1895.
Yes-I only have 10 M-71s and 1886 rifles-so know a little. In addition to being a combat Vietnam veteran, slightly older than dirt.
