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Oops, forgot to add.

When I first learned many years ago, the Mannlicher-Schoenauer rifles in Stutzen form were considered fine alpine hunting rifles, it gave me pause. For hunting eg of European chamois and other mountain species.

If alpine hunting requires shooting at realtively longer ranges, the shorter barrels are less than ideal. And the 6.5x54 M-S cartridge with its heavy 160 gr Round Nose projectile is nothing like what most modern alpine hunters would think is ideal for longer range shots. The relatively curved trajectory seems out of odds for longer shots.

But one factor, is the carbine rifle, is probably more versatile and handy when climing in steep and difficult hunting terrain. Where a long and unwieldly barrelled rifle might be a hinderance. Therefore hunters of old perferring an handier rifle to get them upo there and get them closer.

Discussion welcome.

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Another factor, I believe, is the seemingly instinctive aim of the MS while using its iron sights. The stock geometry lends itself well to 'snap shooting'. Take yours in hand, spin around and shoulder it while coming to aim at a target. It's almost as if it aims itself.

They are light and svelte to carry. My M1910 takedown has never felt heavy to me.

Also, the long projectile of the original MS 6.5X54 provides exceptional sectional density.
Putting that much force on such a small spot is said to have killed many elephants for Mr. W.D.M. Bell and others who followed his lead.

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Citizen of the Cherokee Nation

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