A sporterized '98 Mauser my wife got for me along with a lifetime membership in the NRA in 1965. The rifle was $39.95 deliverd to the door from Monkey Wards.
We were in high cotton that year cause I had just gotten back from 'nam and had gotten combat pay, overseas pay, and hazardous duty pay, and all tax free. Sides that I got a promotion. Wheeeee. What a deal.
The mauser was a 30:06 and I keep her in top running order at all times. Can't tell you how many deer and antelope have been harvested with that rifle, I don't keep score.
She's almost as pretty as my wife was. It is my absolute favorite.
Best wishes, Bill