Roger, I agree with your comments, at least as to aesthetics. Handling is a little more subjective. I believe the main reason the M-21 survived the proof exercise was the length of the receiver, and therefore the distance from the hinge pin to the breech face. The recoil force just doesn't have as much leverage. It also makes them much heavier, also adding to the durability (and clumsiness). On the other hand, everyone that I know that has 21's is constantly dealing with other issues with them. Keeps CSM busy!
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