Looking at possible purchase of a 6 digit serial # 99 in 303 Savage. Vendor says rifling looks good, but he could see a ring about halfway down the bore. He has not shot the rifle, and cannot vouch for accuracy. Any thoughts on what the ring could be and what effect it might have on the integrity or accuracy of the barrel?
Sounds like the fella in Calgary?? I received his pics the other day. Somewhere on this forum I posted pics of the way my 99C in .308 shoots with the ring/bulge in its barrel. The ring is about 2" back from the muzzle and shoots easily .25" with Federal Fusions. Its a crap shoot in regatds to how it will shoot or if its safe. With that said though, I'm a single Dad with no disposable income currently. If that wasn't the case, I would snag it now....
Right you are Leverboy. I'm interested in it, but don't want to be stuck with something that shoots very poorly, or worse, is unsafe. I did mention to the owner that I would search out the opinions of others regarding the ring. Certainly appreciate his forthrightness and honesty in mentioning it.
Unless this particular rifle has some redeeming quality why not just search out another and leave the problems to someone else??
While it's definitely not collector grade, it is relatively inexpensive, and with the application of some TLC, it could be an interesting addition to my small 99 family, which currently does not include a 303. According to the owner, the action works well, and locks up tight. So if it is reasonably accurate and safe to shoot, it could be an enjoyable project for me next winter ... and a good excuse to hunt up some brass and purchase a new set of reloading dies to play with come spring. Other than that, it's quite possible that I'm just an old fool with too much time on my hands!
Other than that, it's quite possible that I'm just an old fool with too much time on my hands!
Not. You're just enjoying the hobby. Sometimes you've just got to buy a pig in a poke just to see what's in there. If it works for you you've made a good buy. If not it goes down the road and you try to recoup your loss. Worse things can happen.
While it's definitely not collector grade, it is relatively inexpensive, and with the application of some TLC, it could be an interesting addition to my small 99 family, which currently does not include a 303. According to the owner, the action works well, and locks up tight. So if it is reasonably accurate and safe to shoot, it could be an enjoyable project for me next winter ... and a good excuse to hunt up some brass and purchase a new set of reloading dies to play with come spring. Other than that, it's quite possible that I'm just an old fool with too much time on my hands!
Wholesale Sports northside Edmonton had the dies on the shelf last week as did Cabelas last month. I'd buy it if I were you. I just don't have the funds currently. I have an 1899b (my handle on Alberta Outdoorsmen) and its a lot of fun.