I’ve had several 1600s with 20.5” and 22” barrels. They’re a small-ring Mauser action, so they’re a lot lighter than a large-ring 98 but they haven’t been a true lightweight since about 1970. Stocks can be beech or walnut.
PRO
Minve have been accurate.
I find geometry of the Monte Carlo stock ideal for offhand shooting, especially with a 22" barrel.
They’re relatively light.
CON
They need to be glass bedded because they tend to split their stocks at the web.
They need aftermarket triggers.
The ejectors come loose in time. LocTite the retaining screw in place and you’ll be OK.
They’re blued/wood versus the Montana’s stainless/synthetic.
They’re long actions, so they’re great for 30-06-length cartridges but less so for others.
I wouldn’t replace a proven stainless/synthetic rifle with a 1600 that's 60 or 70 years old. Once you add the cost of glass bedding, trigger work, scope mounts, and components required to work up new loads, they’re not such a bargain.
Let me know if you have questions.
Okie John
