I'm kind of an 8mm Mauser addict. I own three of them including an M48. I think it is an excellent short to medium range, light to medium game cartridge. More range than the .45-70 - more power than the .30-30 - a better all around round than the .303. Nice recoil traits and a nice steady platform for off hand shooting. The M48 is a nicely balanced carbine and is very quick on target in short range conditions. The standard sights are a limitation at long range and it takes some practice and range work to learn the sight adjustments. I have two sporters - a 98 and a 96 Mauser so I have left the M48 in original military condition. Once you learn the trigger and the sights, I think it is a great 100 -120 yard deer rifle just as it is.