Reloading .303 British : Lee Speed

Just like any rifle, it all depends upon how the rifle was maintained. Corrosive primers are the culprit and poor cleaning habits destroy bores, yes. But I find that with these sporters, the owners generally looked after them, probably due to their no small sum to purchase.

But, who knows where they have been in past or recent years.

You can find them in a number of calibers, they are nitro proofed, so yes, safe to use with modern commercial ammunition. I have my sights set on one chambered in .375 Flanged Nitro Express. Elephant gun!

Like all rifles, there will be a sweet spot for charge and bullet. Part of the fun is hand loading for it to get maximum performance. They can be surprisingly accurate if the bedding is not messed with.