I will have to say that the gunshow dealers are not being truthful that guns are a RC. Some are flat out lieing, Some just may not know.
Just had a gun show a few weeks ago and non matching RC mausers were found for $450 up to $750 and $1000 to $3250 for a all matching non import original mausers. A lot of dealers claimed all matching numbers on guns or non RC, but a quick glance showed otherwise or showed parts that where void of numbers completely (replacement parts). You need to do your homework to avoid getting duped.
In my opinion a matching number non import (bring back) mauser, whether it shoots or not, should not be treated as a shooter, the collector value of this rifle warrants a huge price and should be treated as a collectors item. It could fund your retirement one day.
I ended up searching local stores and purchased a 1944 Russian Capture with a good bore and fair stock (non matching/electro penciled force match serials and import marks), and stamps for $299. I had to go thru about 20 rifles before I could find an acceptable shooter. I have spent some money getting original parts to put back on the gun, (Site hood, Capture screws, 1940's Cleaning rod, 1939 strap,1943 bayonet, 1943 scabbard and 1942 frog). I believe after all is said and done I have about $700 invested. The stock is still in fair shape but does match the barrel serial number and looks like it might hold together, but even this could be force matched. Only time will tell.
It is looking like the quality of the left over RC imports have gone to the bottom of the rusty bucket and the availability of a decent rifle has all but dried up.
If you do buy one and want to modify it (sporterize it), Please (for the love of God) keep your original parts marked and stored near the gun. Even if you think you will never resell it. These guns have a ton of history and the value of them has gone thru the roof. Even original (non reproduction parts) are getting hard to find. There are a ton of folks selling repro parts as original.:barf: So it makes it tough to bring one back after being modified.