A co-worker of mine has a rifle for sale. It is a Mauser, bolt - action .308. It has a hand-made stock which is nicely done, a scope (I do not remember the specifics), and a leather strap. The barrel is very clean. I will have the opportunity to shoot it before buying. Assuming it shoots well, does $225 sound like a good deal? This will my first high powered rifle.
Thanks for the input.

If it shoots good then buy it. You sure couldn't build one for that. Sounds like it has been "sporterized" somewhat. Does it have a new barrel or is it still the original military barrel? If it has the original barrel then they can sometimes be very finicky about what bullets will shoot out of them well.

New Barrel. It is not fitted with sights, just the scope. inside of barrel shine like a mirror.

Buy it and run and don't look back. Just to have a new barrel put on a mauser action would cost you more than what he is asking.

I would however take it to a gunsmith just to make sure that the receiver is good and has good heat treats and such before you bought it. m

If it comes out good the do not hesitate.