DaisyCutter
Member
I've been using an old Russian SKS or a M-44 as my trail rifle on Jeep trips. It just rides along, and gives me the benefit of a long rifle in the event I come across ill-mannered Jesus Malverde disciples in the Arizona back country.
The rub is that both the above rifles are clean and original, and their collectibility and sentimental value has increased to the point that I don't relish the idea of putting dings in them. (I can't believe I'm saying this). I bought them ages ago, so I have no real money into them, but I've had that SKS for 20 years. I'd never replace either at current market prices.
When looking for a designated beater rifle at the gun store, I came across a couple well used Rem 760s in 30-06, and also noticed a couple budget hunting 30-06 hunting rifles (one was a Ruger American). Take your pick, $300. I handload 30-06 extensively.
I like old rifles, so a weathered 760 looked like a promising beater rifle candidate. Those 760s are light & compact, with smooth sides, and one had iron sights. Are they reliable? Do they cycle and feed as reliably as a pump shotgun? They probably kick hard with a stiff 30-06 load, but I load my hunting cartridges lighter for lower recoil. Are there any specific areas to pay attention to on the 760?
The Ruger American felt really cheap, with a gummy rubber butt pad, plastic safety, and a clunky bolt. I suppose if it works, that's all I need. Something reliable that I won't cry over if I find the stock marred from riding alongside my camp stove (despite a soft case).
I was really intrigued by those 760s, but I know very little about them.
The rub is that both the above rifles are clean and original, and their collectibility and sentimental value has increased to the point that I don't relish the idea of putting dings in them. (I can't believe I'm saying this). I bought them ages ago, so I have no real money into them, but I've had that SKS for 20 years. I'd never replace either at current market prices.
When looking for a designated beater rifle at the gun store, I came across a couple well used Rem 760s in 30-06, and also noticed a couple budget hunting 30-06 hunting rifles (one was a Ruger American). Take your pick, $300. I handload 30-06 extensively.
I like old rifles, so a weathered 760 looked like a promising beater rifle candidate. Those 760s are light & compact, with smooth sides, and one had iron sights. Are they reliable? Do they cycle and feed as reliably as a pump shotgun? They probably kick hard with a stiff 30-06 load, but I load my hunting cartridges lighter for lower recoil. Are there any specific areas to pay attention to on the 760?
The Ruger American felt really cheap, with a gummy rubber butt pad, plastic safety, and a clunky bolt. I suppose if it works, that's all I need. Something reliable that I won't cry over if I find the stock marred from riding alongside my camp stove (despite a soft case).
I was really intrigued by those 760s, but I know very little about them.
