Well I'm planning to getting into shooting once I turn 18, so I had a few questions. I was taking a look at the relativelly old k98k rifle.... Do you people think it would be a good rifle for a beginner?(mostly target shooting)... And do you know where you can buy any replicas, etc?

thx

dan

I would recomend a 22lr for a 1st time shooter .They are cheap to shoot,accurate,very little recoil and report.They are excellent for target pratice and small game and are just plain fun to shoot.I can say that most shooters I know started out with a 22lr for there 1st rifle.I own rifles from22lr up to 375 h+h I shoot the 22lr more than any gun that I own, it helps to hone my skills and it won't burn a hole in my pocket.
Lastly I would get instuction on how handle a firearm either from a gun cub,hunter education,or some one you know that has expierence gun IN safety and operation.I hope this helps

If this is your first (or only) gun, I too, would recommend a .22LR. Mainly because they are much cheaper to shoot. A centerfire will set you back more $$ in ammunition costs and you may find the gun sits in the closet way too much.

What are are your thoughts now?

Well I do agree a .22 is the best to start with. My 1st center fire was a 8mm GEW98. Surplus ammo for the 8mm is plentiful and cheap. The problem the K98k is the sights, Front blade is to short for 100 yard precision shooting, V in rear sight is small. I love my M48a Yugo Mauser, I have sold all the rest. I think a 8mm Mauser is a great choice for a 1st center fire rifle. You can buy a higher front sight from either Numrich, or Brownells. You need to call them for part # for internet orders, it is easier than searching. I love 8x57 it is also a great hunting round, I have always had at least one in my safe for the last 20+ years. Always remember, a well cared for rifle will last far past our years! JP

PS, I am planning on getting that 1916 GEW98 back real soon. I sold it to my best friend! But we both know it is mine.

If I was to do it all over again, I would have bought the 98K right off and probably never owned the .30-06 at all. I have no problem with you going right into a centerfire rifle provided you get the proper training and have any surplus or used rifle of any kind checked by a "COMPETENT" gunsmith before you shoot it. 8x57 is a good choice but if you plan on shooting target, may want to consider a K-31 as well, bit more costly on ammo but very accurate.

Since your going to be 18 and you decided on the k98.It does
cost more for ammo then a 22caliber and it will have more of
a kick then a 22.And in my opinion I think the K98 would be
ok for your first center fire rifle.After you learn more about it and decide on another rifle,I think you should get a .338-06
firearm. ;)