I posted this a couple years ago, but passed. The seller still has it, and is trying to sell again.

It's a sporterized Mauser in .308. He bought it from a farmer who did the work himself as a hobby. So it's a Mauser action (short action I guess, since it's .308), the barrel and stock being semi-custom. It has a Weaver scope. It's been a while since I've handled it, so I can't remember the details on the scope. Still, being a good used Weaver, I figure it is worth at least $100 by itself.

Well, he wants $225 for the rifle. Assuming it shoots well (I can shoot it all I want if I'm serious about buying) does this seem worth it?

Here's my reservation: I live in Ohio, a shotgun only state, so although it would be a great toy, I wouldn't be able to hunt with it.I dohave family in Michigan (ina rifle zone)and New Mexico where I might hunt some time, and a rifle would be great. However, if I hunt in New Mexico, it would be for mule deer or elk, which I think a .308 might be on the bottom end of the spectrum for what would be appropriate.

So, I'm not crazy about the caliber. I don't know a lot about Mauser actions, but could it be rechambered into something a little more potent?

Thanks for any advice you might give.