There are lots of military Mausers in the $200-300 range that someone else has already paid the high cost of converting it to a sporter. Many were done for hardware chain stores, etc, that have a new commercial barrel, bolt handle, and stock, action drilled and tapped, surface ground, low scope safety, etc.
That's where I would start if I wanted a budget Mauser rifle.
Bruce
I'll do a huge amen on that.
From time to time I see such Model 98's for sale, but by the time I see them, they are LOOOONG gone..
