the Mauser 98 sporter in 35 Whelen I bought off Mike Dodd for all of $500, has lived up to its billing.

the bloody thing is a tack-driver. its shooting .179" and .248" groups (on a .358" bullet diameter) and is very manageable.

those groups are both with 250gr rounds at 2400, and while I am sure that one could get more out of the rifle, not much will stand in your way short of a buff or jumbo.

I'm VERY VERY pleased, and while the gun does still have some "quirks" (less than buttery-smooth action), for the money and the accuracy, I'm VERY pleased with my purchase.