Nice looking rifle Patagonhunter.

I have never liked the M70. Simply because of the fit,and lack of safety from escaping gas. Fit could be fixed and so could the bolt handle (looks only). However those I know who have them love them and most shoot well.

The 30-06 is a great cartridge case for making .270,35 Whelan, 338-06 etc. Tried one once and it did nothing my old 303 wouldn't do and did nothing for me. Yet I like the 308, go figure, I can't. Mind you 30 cal is the least used of my collection now. The old M94 in 30-30 used to get used a lot in my younger day.

Yes the M98's and M17/P14's have a slow lock time. The M70 sits between these and the Rem 700.