I was hoping that the carbine and Husquavarna action which is much stronger would fetch close to $600.
Stronger than what. I do suspect that metallurgy had improved and gotten better since about 1898 when the Swedes started making that series of rifles. Having said that, the M 96., M38 actions ARE NOT the strongest made. They lack the third locking lug of the later Mauser 98 action, and the receiver rings are smaller, Considering that they are not suitable for higher pressure cartridges that can be used in later Mauser actions, use surplus 6.5x55 ammo or cartridges loaded to similar pressures. I have a Husqvarna sporter made on the identical action in an obscure caliber, 9.3x57 . It throws a big heavy bullet at relatively slow velocities, but then chamber pressures are low by modern standards making it safe.
