Another point to remember if you plan on shooting an original Newton rifle is the potential weakness of the stocks. Some of the 256s and about half of the 30s and 35s have cracked stocks in the Model 1916 and more in the 1924. These cracks are not always easy to detect. The rifle has to be taken down and carefully inspected behind the magazine and in front of and behind the trigger area. Many times the cracks will only be "hairline" cracks. Obviously, if undetected, they are potential for stock failure especially in the higher calibers. Be careful. Newton rifles without cracks in the stocks are sometimes hard to find and will bring a higher value. If I have someone contact me with an original without a crack in the stock and they want to shoot it, I recommend they obtain an extra stock and use it to shoot the rifle. Again, especially in the 30 and 35 Newton.
Larry Wales
