If you are happy with it, that's all that matters ronmayle.

From what you said about your Garandicon you weren't that far apart with trade value, especially if you didn't want the Garand and got something you want. I wouldn't feel bad at all about your trade. i know the RC's don't have a lot of collector appeal, but for some mismatched stamps on parts the Mauser is still a very neat rifle and a bargain as far as I'm concerned. I know I'm a minority too, but I much prefer shooting my bolt guns than my Garand.

When I saw your first photo on page 1 of this thread, the crude 'X' jumped right out that it was an RC without taking into account all the other factors that also are traits of an RC. I have one that I knowingly bought as a RC and like it just fine - It's accurate and I can shoot it all I want without worrying about any of the things you consider when shooting a top collector rifle. No worrying about dinging the stock, etc, will make yours a great and enjoyable hunting rifle which is what you were looking for to begin with. I also think hunting with any milsurp is great fun - especially when you consider the history of the weapon you hold in your hands and it's still functioning perfectly after all these years. The caliber is great for most any North American game and unlike a Garand you can use about any ammunition. The action is second to almost none and Mausers have been used as outstanding hunting rifles for many years. Because of this, finding good ammo is no problem.

My RC has a big import stamp as most RC's do and some of the swastikas have been punched. If yours doesn't have an import stamp and the swastikas aren't punched I'd think it was at least better than most RC's if for no other value than personal satisfaction. Also, Russiaicon or whoever dumped all those RC's seems to have run out in recent years, or at least I don't see stacks of them at gun shows around here anymore.

Looking forward to your range report. (The sights take some getting accustomed to, or at least I had some trouble at first)