Old Weatherby Vanguard

[willtim]

47 years ago I bought a 30-06 Weatherby Vanguard. It is stamped " Made in Japan". Years ago someone told me it is a Howa action. However, it looks nothing like today's Howa action. It more resembles a Mauser type action. Can someone enlighten me? Thank you.

 

[Dr. Vette]

The Howa/Vanguard action is a derivative of the Mauser action, so it would not surprise me if an older one looked more like a Mauser. There's still more than a passing resemblance if you know where to look. And yes, Howa has always manufactured the Vanguard action.

Any chance you can post a photo of your rifle?

 

[willtim]

Thanks. I'm currently deer hunting. I'll get a picture when I get back home. I'm wondering is the action worth rebarreling?

 

[Dosh]

WT, the Howa action is well worth a rebarrel. A friend has a very old Vanguard in 300 WM. The bolt shroud is quite different than the contemporary models.

 

[willtim]

Thanks, Dosh. I hate to show my ignorance but what is a bolt shroud?

 

[Capt RB]

The bolt shroud is at the back of the bolt outside of the action when closed. It doen't rotate

 

[willtim]

Thanks. There is a rectangular bar that parallels the entire length of the bolt that does not rotate as you close the bolt. When open it is in line with one of the lugs. Is that the shroud?

 

[cape cove]

Right by the safety

 

[Dosh]

This is a late model Vanguard bolt shroud, I don't have access to a shroud off a original vintage Vanguard. The silver part with SUF on it. This shroud is attached to the end of the bolt assembly.