which one to not get

[Dave Hoback]

This has been discussed a few, probably several times, my friends. Just in the last couple weeks Phil & I were discussing this. And while I outlined the necessary steps in swapping parts over, and even removing the fixed Ejector, Phil’s debate was the newer style Actions(Post 1966), were a better choice due to ease. I agree. Really though, it depends on what is it being used for? If the Action itself is the only item needed, they are the same. It’s the external parts in question. If one is replacing ALL these arts(as I have nearly done with my rifle), then it doesn’t matter. But if one wishes to save money, I agree that newer rifles are better.

[bsekf]

You say iron sights are part of your criteria. Be aware that you will probably not be able to change barrels between actions. Sights will not be on top!

[dillwt]

The pre-66 110 is unique unto itself. There is nothing wrong with them, in fact, they are commonly good shooters. The problem is practically nothing exists for the pre-66 110s and virtually no parts will interchange with post '66 110s.

If you want a rifle with aftermarket support, select a post '66 model.

I have 2 of those, one I converted the bolt to the post 66 type and put a 338-06 barrel on it and one I left original 7mm Mag. Both function great. Bolt lift is lighter than the post 66 ones. Machining and bluing is better. I actually prefer them. Great hunting rifles. Trigger options are limited. Parts can be found if you look for them. Ebay is a great place to look.
8649

[PhilC]

I have 2 of those, one I converted the bolt to the post 66 type and put a 338-06 barrel on it and one I left original 7mm Mag. Both function great. Bolt lift is lighter than the post 66 ones. Machining and bluing is better. I actually prefer them. Great hunting rifles. Trigger options are limited. Parts can be found if you look for them. Ebay is a great place to look.
No argument from me on that!

One thing, if you retain the original pre-66 stock and don't use a custom turned barrel that includes the band for the rear sight dovetail you'll have a corresponding empty recess in the stock. But, if looks don't matter, no big deal.

I'm still waiting for Shaw custom barrel to confirm, now going on 2 weeks, whether or not their pre-66 barrel includes the band for the rear sight dovetail (picture on their website does not). I'd be one unhappy customer if I ordered a pre-66 barrel expecting it to be an exact replacement and it showed up at my door without the band for a dovetail.

[Dave Hoback]

I do not believe it does. They are using the same blanks. The only difference being the countersink at the breech.

[dillwt]

No argument from me on that!

One thing, if you retain the original pre-66 stock and don't use a custom turned barrel that includes the band for the rear sight dovetail you'll have a corresponding empty recess in the stock. But, if looks don't matter, no big deal.

I'm still waiting for Shaw custom barrel to confirm, now going on 2 weeks, whether or not their pre-66 barrel includes the band for the rear sight dovetail (picture on their website does not). I'd be one unhappy customer if I ordered a pre-66 barrel expecting it to be an exact replacement and it showed up at my door without the band for a dovetail.

Just find an old walnut post 66 stock and you will be set since both have same bolt pattern. May have to do some minor inletting.

[PhilC]

Actually that is not totally correct. All you need to do to install a new barrel is swap out the corresponding new style parts to make it work. Bolt body, bolt head, the rest of the bolt parts are exactly the same. Remove the old style ejector since the new bolt head will have the button ejector built in. The triggers are the same as on any pre-accutrigger rifle. Nothing at all wrong with the receivers as far as I know. Unless you can specifically say why these receivers are a NO GO?
Actually, it is more so than not and the pre-66 trigger assembly is not the same as post-66, here are pics of both of mine.

Pre-66...

https://i.ibb.co/MBw6KtZ/pre66a.jpg (https://ibb.co/MBw6KtZ)

https://i.ibb.co/jkqht9M/pre66b.jpg (https://ibb.co/jkqht9M)

Post-66...

https://i.ibb.co/Tg2RWjX/post66b.jpg (https://ibb.co/Tg2RWjX)

https://i.ibb.co/sbKh014/post66a.jpg (https://ibb.co/sbKh014)

And, if you keep the pre-66 stock and use a later barrel, you'll have this to contend with too...

https://i.ibb.co/YhRYk4K/pre66forearm.jpg (https://ibb.co/YhRYk4K)

Anyone can make a bunch of parts changes to end up with an action but starting with a complete post 66 action in the first place would be the most economical and sensible option. Alternatively, one could leave the early action as is and enjoy it. :cool:

[Dave Hoback]

Yup… This is correct. While the Pre66 can be stripped down & ya have a basic Long Action like the Post66, which will accept all newer parts.., what Phil says is correct. And the wise decisions. If you WANT a Pre66 as a collector, awesome! But if looking for accurate shooter, likely planning to replace barrel or a few other parts, yeah, go with a newer.