Originally Posted by
Big Uncle
Older rifles were more of a "hit or miss" proposition than most of the more modern models. Some did shoot very well but finding a really good shooter was not always easy. The best thing about the older models was the fit, finish, and the quality of the wood. My first big game rifle was a fabled "pre-64" M70. It was a beautiful (to me) hunting rifle but it certainly was not a "all day MOA" rifle. I was involved in competitive benchrest shooting so I did have some idea of how to develop loads.
Everyone seems to have a favorite three shot group that they shot once and cut out for display but the occasional good group does not really mean that the rifle is a good consistent shooter.
Uncle, the very first really nice bolt action rifle my dad got me was that very same rifle in .30-06. Said I had "graduated" from that little .30/30 and needed a "real rifle" his words not mine. I still favor my lever guns at times. Had (still has cuzz I still own it to this very day) some of the prettiest wood furniture you could lay eyes on. Pops fiddled around with it a bit, working the stock and re-bedding it to float the barrel. Shot really well before that. Shot freakishly well after that. The old girl will still put them in the 10 ring when needed. I guess we got one of the good ones.