Are the Mexican Mausers the same length?
No, unfortunately no other Mauser bolt will interchange. The Mexicans are the intermediate length, only very slightly shorter than the standard 1898.
It's not difficult to shorten a standard or intermediate bolt to the proper length; what's difficult is finding a smith who can do it undetectably, reasonably promptly and at a reasonable cost.
I haven't shortened an action since attending TSJC in the '60s but I still remember what's involved in doing the bolt. I worked up a SWAG of about 3 times the labor of welding a bolt handle, which translates in my mind to the range of $300-$500 for the bolt shortening itself. Then add for fitting it to the action and lapping and any special metal finish or other embellishment.
The price will also depend upon how much you the owner furnish toward the project. Things such as the bolt parts themselves as well as any special bolt knob, also information about the specific dimensions and angles of the Kurz bolt as compared to the replacement. It's necessary for the smith to have the Kurz receiver in hand but it's also desirable for him to have actual dimensions for a benchmark comparison. If he has to take the time to gather all this stuff then he'll charge for it.
IMO you should be able to get the work done (by a NON-NAME smith) for less than $1000, actually could/should be MUCH less depending upon who does it and how much you furnish. IMO $600 would be such a low price that I would be suspicious but anything over $1000 would rate a VERY close consideration of alternatives. If you want it done absolutely perfectly then I'd suggest someone like G&H for about twice the price.
But then again I'm an old fogey and my price ideas are out of date. This opinion is worth exactly what it cost (VBG).
Regards, Joe
