I have shot, but do not own a Model 71, but do remember that at first glance it reminded me of the Model 63 owned my uncle; nice lines and fast handling.

I was well into practicing with my Miroku/Winchester 1895 .405 for a buffalo hunt when my friend who owned the rifle range offered his M71 for test firing. We swapped rifles and the 71 balance seemed butt heavy and light compared to my .405. After a couple of off hand shots, I gave it back with thanks, but no thanks; for me it was too short, had too brisk recoil, and was too light.

Plus with an 1886 45-90,1892 .357, and 1895 .405, there was no opening left in my armory(or safe).
My friend kept his 71 a while and then went back to his 1886. It is great to have so many rifle choices that a shooter can usually find the ones that best suit him.