I am thinking about a .30-30 built on a small frame Martini action to use as a deer rifle in Pennsylvania.  I'd like a recommendation for the best small frame Martini action to use as a starting point.   

I would like something that might lend itself to some tasteful engraving, which means surface grinding all of the actions except a few of the commercial ones; although the Cadet actions would seem to need a lot more work than the rimfire actions.  I want a pistol grip, which means replacing or bending the levers on the Cadets and most of the BSAs except the 12/15 (the 15 is out because of the rear sight's being dovetailed into the rear of the action).  I also will need to scope the rifle (my eyes being the same age as the rest of me, iron sights of any type on a hunting rifle are unfair to the game).  I'll need to either acquire an action with some form of safety installed, or install a safety.  Finally, I want an action that will is not in terrible condition - bluing gone is fine, pitting beyond surface freckling that will come out as part of the finish polishing is not.

With those minimum qualifications in mind, which small frame Martini action would you suggest I use as a starting point?  Where might I acquire one?

Thanks very much.

40x
I think the 12/15 would be my choice. Rear sight is screwed to receiver no dovetail
Tom

Nice lumber!!! I have weakness for curly maple and that piece is a beauty!

I would go with a 12 or 12/15 for the thick side walls, especially if you'll be "scrubbing" them for engraving.  If you can locate a centerfire breechblock, it can be fitted to the rimfire action and will make life a bit easier than having to convert a block.  Even with a cf block, be prepared to bush the firing pin hole...I've seen some that were much bigger than the pin's tip, and that's an invite to pierced primers even on the 30-30.  PM me with your email address and I'll get a photo off of a 12/15 I'm building using one of our Creedmoor stocks, though it may be a few days to get the picture to you.

David

40x
Here is a beginning. Have you considered 357 Max as a hunting ctg?

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Tom
Whitey
How is JD Steel doing without the ASSRA?

Quote:

JD is doing freat and having fun on the other site. Along with a lot of the Ex-members here. Whitey

Joe:

I had no idea G&H ever did custom work on Martini rifles, let alone advertise the work.  That is a handsome rifle indeed and I can see it being a pretty good style to imitate when I get going on mine.

Thanks for sharing it.

If you wanted a pistol grip with a nice lever, why not just get one from BSA?
Fred