[jackfish]

I was at a gun show over the weekend and found a Siamese Mauser in the 8mm rimmed cartridge with what looked to be a 26" barrel and a short forearm.  It was $165 and I would have used it for the action for a conversion to a 45-70 sporter.  I looked it over but was unsure of its condition and passed.  I understand it is essentially a 98 action for rimmed cartridges.  How do you evaluate such a piece?  What should I be looking for to determine if the action is in good enough condition for a conversion?

 

[arkypete]

I've been shooting a Siamese Mauser for 20 plus years, that was converted to 45-70.
I'd ignor everything except the action. Check for wobble when the bolt is locked down and when it's full back for extracting empties. Check for obvious rust spots and pits. Drop the magazine bottom and check out the magazine well and follower, if there is one. Try the trigger and be aware of the firing pin and shroud.
Basically give the action a very through going over, every thing else is scrap.
Jim