Ryan:
The M1917 can be made up into a fine custom sporting rifle. I had a fine custom on a 1917 action that I shot for many years, and wish I had it back (stolen). In my view, it's the best military bolt action for that purpose, especially for larger bores.
With a properly straightened bolt handle, the 1917 is one of the fastest, slickest bolt action sporting rifles there is - because of the cock-on-closing feature. A cock-on-opening kit converts a great action into just another also-ran. Don't do it. Yes, the 1917 is different, but that's what makes it desirable.
