Majspud, I agree on changing out the barrel BUT--make sure the feeding rails have not been opened up for the fatter 30-06 case. I have a couple of receivers in my junk box that were opened up like this and they are no longer suitable for 7.7. The red stock on your rifle is fantastic! I'm drooling! I do have a 99 in 30-06 (not so nice as yours) that I decided to leave as is due to the feed rails. Salt Flat