96 Mauser 257 Bob

[Pinkerton]

I came across a 96 Mauser re-barreled to 257 Roberts the other day, I don't know much about the 96's I'm more familiar with the 98's but this appeared to be a 96. Will the 96 action handle the higher pressure Roberts loads?

Thanks

[mrbigtexan]

you bet it will, i have one in .308. they are great rifles!!!

[GatCat]

The "Bob" is often mentioned in gunsmithing books as being a good caliber to rechamber the Swede's to, along with 7X57, and  .35 Remington. Quite a few do not recommend the .308 & family for this action, BUT alot have been safely converted and used. Also, it is worth noting that Kimber at one time aquired a bunch of surplus Swedes. Those with good bores were "sporterized" with a molded plastic stock and scope bases. Those with poor bores were rebarreled with .243, .308, and maybe .22/250. So it appears that if the action is sound, the conversion, properly done, is o.k.
I don't know what pressure the .257 plusP are loaded to..I'd compare them to the .308 factory loads before using them.
Mark

[Mr. Joe]

Surely.  I have seen them re chambered in 7x57, .308, and .260.  I would have a smith look the action over, but if its sound, i would worry about the strength.