Hi Tomo, I am a new member like yourself. I own a 1903 in 6.5MS sporter with 24 inch brl that was restored & it is in immaculate condition. The bore is a bit dark which is to be expected for a rifle used with old ammo. The 5 piece cleaning rod is unused. I shot a deer with it this May (New Zealand hunting season is year round). I also have a 1930 Greek military carbine (1903 action) that was customised by an amature & I am now getting it done by a professional.

You may want to check these sites. There is another one titled Gentleman's rife - I have the link on my home computer. These 3 associations are very helpful & have very knowledgable members. One of them has the best database on MS rifles & Styre actually use his info. One of the founders owns WDM "Karamoja" Bell's famous elephant killing 6.5 MS rifle!

http://www.mannlicher.org/; http://mannlicherschoenauer.com/used_guns.htm