gummipuppe
Señor Member biatch
A very reasonable impression for maybe two years ago, but not now. Figure on paying at least $400 for an unpeened Russian capture with unmatching numbers, in fair to good condition.
I started looking for one almost a year ago. I prefer to look at my military rifles before I buy so I decided to look around in area gun shops and gun shows. None were found, except for one that was sporterized and ridiculously overpriced. I then turned to one of my gunsmith buddies who is a WWII military rifle collector with connections to other collectors. It took him about three months, but he found one for me that was in my budget ($400 max) and would be suitable for use during reenacting. It looks decent, is unpeened, and shoots very accurately, but has unmatched numbers. Not exactly a highly sought after collectible, but it suits my needs.
I remember back in 2012, I bought a very nice M91/30 for $89, including bayonet, ammo pouches, and cleaning kit. Those days are over. If they are in stock, the cheapest I've seen them at the store is $129 on sale.
OK, gentlemen.Would anyone care to suggest a reasonable alternative rifle, similar in style, another Mauser perhaps? I'm a new shooter, so I'm simply looking for reliability, decent quality, and love the historical aspect of WW2.
If shooting is more important to you than collecting WWII rifles, then I suggest the Yugo M48 series. You can still get them for around $300 if you look hard enough. The rifles are typically found in almost new condition. They are sexy looking, extremely well made, and accurate.