30/30 bolt action rifle

[Mike95]

Apart from the old Savage/Stevens models, I have not come across a uk version in 30/30. I have approached a few gunsmiths, but none were interested in making a bolt action in 30/30...what would be the donor action/ barrel for a bolt action version? I appreciate the calibre is no target round but it has been one of my faves for many years...I still shoot a Marlin but would love to get a single shot or magazine version with a decent heavy free floating barrel.

Mike95

[ovenpaa]

The 30-30 is a bit awkward as the rim diameter is 12,9mm from memory so you either opt for a short magnum action such as a SAUM at 13,6mm and solder a ring in to the bolt face and faff around with the extractor, or opt for a .308 bolt at 12,01 or the Swede at 12,2mm and again faff around with the extractor. No point looking at MN's or .303's as they are way too big however you might get away with an 8mm Mauser type action. Once that is decided you can decide on bullet choice, barrel and stock etc.

A fun project :)

[WelshShooter]

I believe Henry have just released a new line of single shot rifles, which includes 30-30 calibre. No idea how long it would be until (or if) they hit the UK market. Might be worth speaking to an importer if serious?

[Sim G]

Remington chambered their 788 in .30-30 but that’s going to be difficult to find as well. In the 80s/90s there were a load of Enfields being rechambered in the US. .45-70, .38-55 and .30-30. So it’s more than doable, but the price would surely be prohibitive.

[dodgyrog]

Wouldn't a Lee Enfield convert easily?

[Mike95]

Very interesting...perhaps explains the reluctance on the part of gunsmiths. I will check out the Henry..possibly an import of a Savage/ Stevens might be viable...they seem to retail at about $350 in the States...spares would be a problem..

Mike95