I have shot a boat load of M-98 rifles ranging from those that looked like they had been dragged behind a truck to those that were virtually new from rebuild or in exceptionally good original condition. With good barrels and ammunition I have not found it hard to shoot groups equal to 03 rifles using the standard battle sight. Using the aperture on the 03 or the 03-A3, my groups are certainly more consistent for vertical dispersion.

Concerning recoil, I have found that the 03 "S" stock is fine w/ M-2 ball. The "C" and scant stocks are better especially with heavy hunting loads. The KAR-98 is to me quite comfortable even in extended shooting sessions. I do tend to shoot mostly from the prone position using a hard hold. I usually wear a M-65 coat unless the weather is really hot. Then I just wear a shirt.

For accuracy, I glue a small piece of surgical rubber to the buttplate of my K-98 to keep it from slipping up and down on my shoulder. I do the same thing with my 03 and 03-A3 and M-1 rifles. It greatly improves my consistency in grouping.

The above is of course just my opinion based only on my own experience. Your results may be different. Sincerely. BruceV