“Theoretically, the semi-auto has a quick follow-up shot advantage over the bolt”
Seriously? It’s a lot more than theoretical! In 1967, I was assigned to cover our company sniper with my M-14 in case he ran into trouble. He had a Winchester model 70 in .30-06 and he was grateful to have me in direct support if case we ran into more than one VC. 20 rounds of 7.62mm fired as fast as possible is WAY more effective than 5 rounds fired, one per bolt manipulation. How do you think the Germans with their KAR 98K or the Japanese with their Arisakas felt going up against the M1 Garand?
“...Seriously? It’s a lot more than theoretical!...”
Theoretical was a poor choice of words on my part (I knew better) and I have no doubt in that situation you described, it was more than a welcome and needful weapon. Like i said, “It all depends on what you’re gonna do with it.” For up close and personal, the semi-auto is the way to go. For placing shots in the area of a dime out to 850 yards or so, maybe not so much. I actually have both type of platforms: A semi carbine for defense up close and personal and a heavily customized 700 bolt shooting necked down .308 to .264 for reaching way on out there. I kinda like “touching small things” afar off before the sound of the shot ever even gets there.