What is with these $49 vintage rifles at Big 5?

Mr. Pub

New member
I see ads in the paper for Big 5 sporting goods for "vintage collectible" rifles ranging in price between $49 for a Turkish 8mm Bolt-Action Mauser or a M91/30 Mosin Nagant Bolt action rifle to $189 for an unissued Model 48 8mm Mauser bolt-action.

My question is, how reliable, accurate, functional are these rifles. What are the pro's and cons? Is ammunition hard to find?

Thanks in advance.
 
The rifles you describe are often shot out relics with dark and pitted bores. The muzzles are usually rounded off like a gromet. I would never shoot one unless headspacing is done, and that costs just as much as the rifle.

The calibers of the rifles you describe are 8mm for the Mauser's and the Russian models are geberally 7.62x54R. Both of these ammos are in plentiful supply as milsurp, are relatively cheap, and often corrosive.

I bought a few of the mentioned rifles for parts, but if you are looking for a shooter, spend the extra $50 and get a decent surplus rifle.

Noban
 
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