Thanks John, that's the sort of info that helps in aking a decision on the purchase of a rifle. Good or bad either way, but informative and non-predjudiced.

I take it the later model "Lghtning MLR-308" with the alloy receiver has a semi-pistol grip style stock? If that's the case then this model is the earlier steel receiver version. All the more desireable as that model has the bolt locking up in the receiver not the back end of the barrel as per the current alloy version.

Well I guess I had best look at selling one of my Martini Cadets, the SMLE bolt action single shot 410 shottie and either my Rem788 .223 or my Maltby No4 303, to raise the $750 needed for the Miroku.

Another question if I may: have you tried sourcing larger capacity mags from the USA? I am wondering if one of the US manufacturers make say a 10rd mag for these rifles. Or how would you go getting the local guys to make one up based on a SLR 20rd mag.