Never had an 1949, but I always wanted one (esp. in 8mm mauser)......couldn't afford one when they first started importing them back in the 80's (I was in college at the time, and usually short of cash). Makes me wish I had bought one way back when.
On a similar note, I bought my 6.5 swede M96 back in the late 80s....guy had a pile of 'em at a gun show for $80 each, your pick. I picked the one with the best looking bore, as I had plans to turn it into a sporter. Seeing what they are asking for some of them now, I kinda wish I had picked up a couple more at that price.
......ah, to have a working crystal ball!
