I think it's pretty fair to say that, back in the 70s / very early 80s, some may not have performed as some hoped. But mainly as regards power. This may have been down to the well-documented porous breech issues. But may have been due to guns not making 11.999999 ft.lbs that was so lusted after by some. Maybe some needed to just be properly run in? However, they've always been very solid and reliable. And dependably accurate. To the point where, in my book, it's far more than a "yard gun". Multi-purpose, too. Scoped up, a "longer range" tack driver. But fabulous at bell target and paper target shooting disciplines with its superb open sights / option dioptres.

Did I tell anyone that I love them?