Husqvarna .308 from mid 1950's

[MP1518]

I bought a Husqvarna rifle in .308. I believe it was made in mid 1950's. It has front sight with a hood and rear sight. Monte Carlo style stock , nice looking wood , black forend , etc.

Seems like it was not used much at all. I am going to put a 3-9 Leupold on it and take it to the range.

Few questions.

How are Husqvarna rifles of that vintage?
What are they comparable to as far as quality goes?
How is the parts availability ?
Does anyone make aftermarket stock for them?

 

[bigolddave]

They are beautifully made, of the finest steels. Parts are generally not a problem, as the actions on the ones as recent as a .308 are Mauser 98's. There are some Husqvarnas that are made on earlier Swedish military actions, but are mostly in metric calibers. The only knock I have ever heard is that the wood on some is very plain, and some are birch.

There were also rifles made by Husqvarna for various U. S. companies; including S & W, I believe. They may have been made to a price point, and may not have been as well finished. They would still be well made.

 

[tndrfttom]

I have a Husqvarna 30-06 from 1952 – it’s basically a commercial Model 98 Mauser action. I’ve never seen commercial parts available for it but then I’ve never needed any. I’d think that because it is a ’98 Mauser parts could be found or modified if needed. It’s hard to identify some of the models because they are frequently unmarked. (I was told mine is a Model 640 but don’t know for sure). The older ones have a “flag” safety on the bolt plug and later ones have a slide safety mounted along the receiver tang. Mine has a plain GI-type trigger with plenty of motion and creep. Bolt throw isn’t very smooth. Accuracy is a little less than 2 inches at 100 yards with peep sights. The stocks are frequently plain but mine has some figure and is nicely checkered. It isn’t a Model 70 but it is a fine 1950's hunting rifle.

 

[jdlii]

At my urging (instance) a friend of mine bought one that I had run across from a private seller. These are, as y'all know, extremely well made rifles.

His rifle is a 30.06 and built on a commercial mauser action. Building a rifle of that quality today would result in a price in excess of $800+. I believe that these rifles were, many years ago, sold by J.C. Penny's.

 

[BigBill]

Chrome moly steel, the finest steels in the world.

Just try a Swedish military surplus Carl Gustaf m96 6,5mm Mauser. The commercial swedes are awesome too.

 

[growr]

An outstanding rifle in ALL regards! It was made when craftmanship was common instead of once in a while sort of thing.
Treasure it....you have a real gem.

Randy