Mauser 98 Re-Barrel

[Bruce]

I have a Polish small ring 8mm Mauser that was my consolation prize from my parents when i failed the driving test when I was 16 (eons ago). It came from Big 5, and was imported by Interarms. The markings on the receiver ring were ground off by Interarms (or somebody else). I would like to get it rebarreled to a more common caliber. I have heard over the years that receivers that have had their markings ground off are unsafe. Is that true?

[Pthfndr]

No, it's not true

[gunboat]

Generally not true about weakening the action, presuming of course, that grinding stopped after removing the crest.
while it would probably be a good one to rework, I think you will find it is not cost effective. A new barrel, stock, sights, plus labour will rapidly exceed the cost of a decent shooter in any flavor you like.
If you have the skills, tools, interest and perseverance it would be a nice DIY project.
I have M98 I have been working on for a number of years but just don't seem to get finished. ---- my ha-penny

[Bruce]

Thanks guys. It has sentimental value that exceeds any monetary investment. I had thought of something like a 7X57 carbine with the flat butter-knife type of bolt handle.