Paul, I appreciate your response. I have since read extensively on the 7600, its design, many reviews, and conclude that I stand highly corrected, on believing the opinion of an old gunsmith. It appears that he had a bias against 7600. And, in believing his opinion of the 7600, I was wrong. It would have benefitted me if previous posters would have directed me to publications, or even explained how the 7600 design and mounting system helps to give it great accuracy even at long distances. But since previous posters had no intention of educating me, preferring instead, to respond as jerks, they demeaned the old gunsmith, whom I regarded as a friend. Badmouthing began on THEIR end, probably fueling their egos by a few brews. What they think of me is really none of my business. They know what I think of them. They started out taking the low road at the git go.
Just to let you know, I've read magazine articles by writers I have a lot of respect for. They stated that pump action rifles have no ability to group shots. So your gunsmith falls in good company. Before 7600's came out I found out that it was difficult to get 760's to shoot well off sand bags. But after I learned how, they shot fine.
The 7600 is a very accurate rifle but many poo hoo'd the 7600 without trying them. Perhaps your gunsmith read those articles too.
The only issue I have with the 7600's is their recoil pad. I have arthritis and bersitus I need a soft recoil pad even on low recoil rounds such as the 270. But that's due to my short comings not the 7600. If you're shooting good groups off bags you are doing well.
That 7600 in 35 Whelen is an awesome rifle. I believe it is good for any animal in the Western Hemisphere. Also don't believe it when people tell you it isn't any good for longer distances a decent 200 to 225 grain bullet loaded to 60,000 PSI is a fairly flat shooting cartridge. Just look at the bc on the bullet, look at the velocity, then look at the tables.
My brother reliably took deer to 450 yards with his whelen.
I hope to see more of your posts.
