7.62x54R in Mosin Nagant to make custom hunting rifle

[treeman]

I picked up the guns today, one is 7.62 x 54r and looks like it will work, high hopes on a good result anyway.  The second is a hungarian (?) 8 x 56R maybe? anybody know anything about these beasts?  Sounds like I may have made a boo boo

2nd one sounds like a Steyr M95, with straight pull bolt...

[Pat/Rick]

I would not feel undergunned anywhere in N America with a mosin and S&B 180 grain SP's. If I felt I needed more I would use some of the 200 grain stuff. They both kill deer most rikky tik. Yep, I like my mosins, of course I like my Marlin 30-30's alot as well 
 
The oldest service cartridge still in common usage is the 7.62x54R. Must be a reason for it. Mosin nagants (1891) are still in use and are found on today's battle field. Must be a reason for it.
 
Sportrizing? I gotta agree that its cheaper to buy something already in that configuration. Want something unique and all yours? Do it, but remember not everybody will be willing to pay the price if resale is the motive. Just saying. Some reworks are pretty nice though. Have fun!

[Freezer]

Bending the bolt might not be a good idea! you will need jigs and heat sink. The cost is not worth it when you can but a screw in bolt. If I may be so bold, shoot the rifle first to see if the thing actually shoots well enough to make into a sporter as these are older rifles with a history. After that if you just want to tinker on something go for it! The after market trigger will cost $100 but is worth it,