Topper 158

[jaysouth]

I have a Topper 158 in .30-30.  Some former owner cut the barrel to 17 inches and recrowned it, sort of.
Anyhow it shoots well enough for deer hunting where I hunt.  I also load my 165 cast bullets over 8 grs.  of Red Dot for range plinking.  The best hunting load I have found is the old 125 reduced recoil Remington loads.  I only have two boxes left.
Does anyone know what is a realistic service life for the old Toppers?  I really enjoy shooting it but am aware that the receiver is not the best Krupp gun metal.
Thanks

[rdlange]

Probably last longer than we will.  I shoot factory ammo in mine OK, but needs a trigger job to get better accuracy, and new springs probably to get best performance.  Reliable enough to trust hunting.  Barrel top is smaller radius so the regular H&R mounts don't fit without bedding.  Otherwise I really like the balance and light weight.  Good luck with yours.