M38 accuracy vs M44?

[DavidB2]

This may be a dumb question; but I just came across an M38 in beautiful condition. I have the long barreled Mosin and a M44; so when I saw the M38 last week at $139; I bought it.

I also rarely see M38 rifles anymore; even being sold on the internet; so I figured it was wise to get a nice one when I had the chance.

I haven't had a chance to take it to the range; but can anyone tell me about it's accuracy compared to the M44? It is almost too pretty a rifle to hunt with; but I will be shooting it at the range when I get the first chance. Does anyone have any experience with the M38? How does it compare to other Mosin-Nagant rifles?

 

[NCsmitty]

The M38 is basically a shortened M91/30 and the M44 is a separate design w/bayonet. The M38 usually have more war wear than the M44, unless they were rearsenaled. In equal condition, you won't see much difference in accuracy, with the M38 maybe having an edge.
Now you need a M39 to round things out.

NCsmitty

 

[rangerruck]

I disagree, the 38 will smoke a 44, the bayonet folded or not, really throws the rounds around. Actually, I think that a 38 will be as accurate , or more accurate than a 91/30; the 91's generally can reach out a bit farther. but the 38, with that short stiff bbl, can really shoot. Look for bullets between 170 and 185 grains, the real sweet spot. even the 200 and 205's are superaccurate, and can be 1 hole punches; but they drop about 1 ft poi difference, even just at 100 yds.

 

[rangerruck]

Oh yeah, that is a good pickup, a nice looking 38 is hard to come by, and 38's are drying up as well.