Custom 1894 Rifle?
Posted: Fri Mar 18, 2016 4:19 pm
I have a 1957 Model 94 Carbine in 30-30, that I don't particularly love. Although it is in fine mechanical condition, it has been adapted by someone in the past in ways I don't like: The stock has been reshaped and lightened - admittedly quite neatly - so the buttplate area is reduced by about 10% and the comb sanded to a sharp edge. If I was making a total guess, I'd say it might have been done to fit a youth or female shooter. It also has a strange extra band around the magazine tube about halfway along its length, with small upward projections that 'support' the lower part of the barrel. This band is secured with a transverse screw which required a channel to be cut across the top of the magazine tube and the underside of the barrel so the screw could pass through the gap between tube and barrel. This band seems to be of no real use - let me know if you have any idea what it's for!
Anyway, I have it in mind use the pre-64 action to make up a new sporting rifle - octagonal barrel, new magazine tube of the correct length, rifle-style woodwork and appropriate sights. I should point out that I live in the UK where original 1894 rifles are pretty rare and very, very expensive in any condition, and as I have access to an extremely good gunsmith (a recognised expert in case hardening and stock finishing) I estimate that I might be able to have him assemble a really exceptional rifle for less money than (or the same money as) a well-worn 1920s original would cost me. I know this wouldn't make sense in North America, but remember I'm in a different market.
What do forum members think the hidden pitfalls of such a plan might be? 24" or 26"barrel for balance and accuracy (I like accuracy!)? Is it possible to fit a crescent butt and rifle foreend to a late 50's carbine action? Should I ask my gunsmith to weld up the holes for a receiver mounted aperture sight?
Thoughts and guidance welcome!
Anyway, I have it in mind use the pre-64 action to make up a new sporting rifle - octagonal barrel, new magazine tube of the correct length, rifle-style woodwork and appropriate sights. I should point out that I live in the UK where original 1894 rifles are pretty rare and very, very expensive in any condition, and as I have access to an extremely good gunsmith (a recognised expert in case hardening and stock finishing) I estimate that I might be able to have him assemble a really exceptional rifle for less money than (or the same money as) a well-worn 1920s original would cost me. I know this wouldn't make sense in North America, but remember I'm in a different market.
What do forum members think the hidden pitfalls of such a plan might be? 24" or 26"barrel for balance and accuracy (I like accuracy!)? Is it possible to fit a crescent butt and rifle foreend to a late 50's carbine action? Should I ask my gunsmith to weld up the holes for a receiver mounted aperture sight?
Thoughts and guidance welcome!