Originally Posted by
GRIZZLYMAN
I have a 742 that is 40 years old that is still shooting well and killed two deer so far this year with. My BIL has a 740 that is obviously older and still is shooting fine and taking deer also. My BIL's brother has a 742 that has had problems, but he doesn't clean it.
Semi-autos require a little bit more care and maintenance because they have more moving parts than say a bolt action. If they aren't maintained, they will wear out quickly.
I had a BAR in 7mm RM that I traded a few years ago. I wish I had it back.
With that said, if I was going to buy a new rifle, I would probably go with a pump action instead of a semi auto.
+1
I have a 742 that my Dad passed on to me. Dad took a boatload of deer with it, I took several with it and my son got his first with it this year. Not the most accurate rifle in the world by any stretch but it has been dependable. It has also been well maintained but I will admit that it does not get shot a whole lot anymore.