Seems to me I heard something about the bolts being fragile on Marlin 1897's. I'm looking to buy one to shoot and eventually send off to Doug Turnbull for sprucing up. Are they okay as long as I stick to standard velocity ammo? Can a bolt from a 39 be made to fit an old 1897?
Same questions for the model 1892. Also, how does an 1892 differ from an 1897? In general, are any parts available for these old-timers, or would I have to buy a parts gun to back up the shooter?
Thanks in advance