The design features of the Model 70 that I cited above I see as geniune improvments over the Mauser 98, and not as cost-cutting measures.

I've known D'Arcy for a long time, and he's built me a number of rifles that I've hunted with extensively. Most of the rifles be builds (all grades) are based on Model 70s, so he must not think that there's TOO MUCH wrong with that action. If the basic design was anything less excellent, he wouldn't used it, pure and simple.

Neither would David Miller and Curt Crum, who mostly build on Model 70s as well, and like Echols, that won't work with any part or component that it's of the highest quality in terms of design and materials.

All of these guys will build on good Mauser 98-pattern actions if the client desires, but the bulk of their work is on Model 70s.

Walk counts for more than talk............