Was at a little local show this weekend and made a find that reminds you that shows are sometimes worth attending. I had a huge pile of gun parts of all flavors that I had bought from a gunsmith's estate 7 years ago. I had raided them many times for projects, and sold enough of them that I had nothing in them. I needed the space in my work room that they were taking, so I dragged them to the show. Hadn't even gotten them off my cart when one of the vendors asked about them. Long story short, I gave him the parts and $450 and got this German stalking rifle. I need to do a chamber cast, but I am 95% sure it is in 8.15X46R. The bore isn't perfect, but is plenty shootable. I am also pretty sure this originally had a Mannlicher-style forestock that has been cut back, but it is pretty handsome the way it is. Almost all the finish has been worn off, but some original blue and color case is hiding in protected areas. The trigger pull, once set, is measured in ounces. A bonus is it retains its original target sights, which are usually missing from these. Based on the proofing house marks, it is definitely pre-WWII and probably from the 1911-1919 era.

For a guy who loves Ruger No. 1s, it is neat to have a gun like this. The lines are very similar. Finding 8.15X46R components is not nearly as easy as even just a few years ago, but I think it is worth a shot.

So, do any of you shoot 8.15X46R? Any hints or pointers? Tips on where to find components and dies? Would love to find a bullet mold that would work, too. This one seems ideal for cast bullets.

I know the 8.15X46R is marginal for deer-sized game, but this action will allow me to wring everything out of it that is possible and I think a small NC deer wouldn't be unsporting with this combination. I love hunting with classic old guns like this.