When it arrived it was obvious this was not an ordinary Model 38. This rifle was to the Model 38's that I was used to as the K98k was to the 98 GEW. It was a good five inches shorter in length than the standard full rifle imports and in the same length class as other various intermediate rifles.
Closer examination showed a turned down bolt with a flat inside to the egg handle. There was still in place the rear hardware for a sling and the top ladder sight looked as issued. There was the standard bolt through the stock to give it strength and a front sight that looked military but more sophisticated than the standard import full length rifle blade sight. However the front stock looked to have been modified somewhat, the metal refinished, the stock recoated with some sort of clear finish.
The ring showed a 1946 date and Turk property marks. The front muzzle showed an import stamp of Turk 8mm. The importer showed the Richfield stamp of Navy Arms.
Shortly after these were offered there was some internet conversation about if the modifications didn't alter the C&R status. I emailed AIM and they said they had checked it out and since the parts, asside from the rings thrown in for free, were all original, although the stock slighly reconfigured, it was all legit as C&R.
I wish I had bought one or two more. They even reduced the price to close them all out a few months later.....think to $69.95.
This rifle shoots fine, although the headspace is a bit lax and the action just barely passes a field gauge test. I've fired a good many rounds of the old Turk ammo through it and have enjoyed everything about it but the kick when I don't keep a tight hold on the stock and a firm seat to the shoulder when pulling the trigger.
The good old days of bargain prices .........
