by 1290 » 27 Apr 2014, 10:24 am
I think you guys are creating the disinfo gun news network or something...
The 96 is NOT rear locking...similar length action
96 - cock on closing & small barrel 'ring'
98 - cock on open, improved rear bolt shroud (safety, gas) improved gas porting, Large barrel 'ring'
Third or safety lug is not a rear lock - its a last resort to save your face/life...
1898 has overall much better safety features, though many are chambered in high pressure rounds, 6.5x55, up to various mauser derivative Xx57, 9.3x62 very popular...
If you have a choice, I'd start with an 1898