Strength of 6.5x55 action M96 vs M38

D

Dogger

New member
I have an M38 Swede carbine manufactured in 1942. Would it be a safe bet that this action is stronger than the older M96 rifles, and could accommodate slightly stronger handloads?? I don't want to blow myself up, but I would like to push the velocity of a 140 grain Speer hotcor handload to between 2650-2700 fps at the muzzle...
 
There is no difference between the two actions.

In fact, many of the model 38's are reworked 96's--although clearly yours is not.

The strength issue is a function of the action design, not the metallurgy. Swedish steel has always been top quality; that's one of the reasons that Germany let Sweden sit out WWII--as long as it kept them supplied with good Swedish steel.

If you want to hot-rod the cartridge, I recommend that you get a modern rifle. They are available from many manufacturers.

Hot-loading small-ring mausers is a sin which brings on automatic punishment. At the least, you'll eventually ruin the gun by stretching the receiver.
 
The basic action is the same, no change in design. My understanding is the Swedes were so satisfied with their Mausers that they never changed the metallurgical specs.

My suggestion is to use loads recommended for the 96.

However, a few years ago some Swedes were converted to 308 and sporterized with plastic stocks(by Kimber if my memory serves me) and I have not heard any horror stories. So maybe the action is stronger than we give it credit for.

If you want a hot 6.5, what about the Rem .260?
 
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