Next Milsurp Rifle

[Kalashnikov]

Ok, well since I've gotten back I've wanted a new rifle for the holiday season. I know it should be milsurp and I've narrowed it down either a K31, a Swedish mauser (1896 model), AG42, or SAFN. Metal on all is absolutly flawless, though the stocks could certainly use some work, and the AG42 may need new sights. I'm willing to reload if I have to, so ammo costs arent as big an issue as they used to be. The main purpose of the rifle is to be a fun shooter, as well as something accurate that I could try and locally compete with. Suggestions? Warnings?

Semper Fi

 

[MatthewVanitas]

I vote Ljungman

The AG42 is the Ljungman, right? I'd expect that the prices on those will rise the fastest in the coming years, plus it's a really cool rifle. First-ever gas-impingement issue rifle, correct?

If you reload, then the 6.5 Swede won't be a big deal, and is said to be an excellent cartridge. Then it'll be easier to rationalize buying Swedish Mauser down the road.

-MV

 

[kentucky_smith]

The main purpose of the rifle is to be a fun shooter, as well as something accurate that I could try and locally compete with.

Have to be K31. I'm getting pretty good accuracy at 200 yards, about 5" groups with cheap Tasco 3x9. Be better if I could see the target.



BTW, Where's the Swede?

 

[Cosmoline]

If you have the $$, get the Ljungman or the SAFN. Those are already getting tough to find, esp. the Ljungman. I've personally seen prices on the FN-49 go up and up. They are both fantastic, underrated semiautos. I can tell you from personal experience the SAFN is superior to the Garand in most respects. It was only discontinued because it cost too much to make. The Ljungman is a fascinating design and very well respected. It's at least equal to the Garand or possibly No. 2 of wartime semiauto rifles.

The K-31's and Swedish Mausers will be around for a while yet. NOt so much of a rush on those.

Can I ask what price your target Ljungman and SAFN are going for?

 

[Kalashnikov]

The SAFN is going for $640, but I can probably get it for just $600. The AG42 (I hate trying to spell Ljungman)is going for $700, but again I could probably get it for $600. The SAFN is in 8mm Mauser for those who were curious.

 

[Cosmoline]

Well prices are sure going up on those. $600 is on the high side for an 8mm Eygpt surplus but about right for one of the 7.62 NATO versions.

 

[Gordon Fink]

I haven’t seen any FN-49 listed for under $800, which could buy you eight hand-selected K31s.

~G. Fink

 

[jefnvk]

Ljungman would be my pick. Been wanting one of those, just don't have the money.

Any of them will be a good gun.

 

[Cosmoline]

I haven’t seen any FN-49 listed for under $800, which could buy you eight hand-selected K31s.

~G. Fink

I can remember even five years ago they were going for $400 or less locally. I wouldn't be too surprised to see the mint ones selling for over a grand in a few years. Still, I'd probably wait for a better deal. If you keep your eyes open you should be able to get one for $500 or so.

 

[muaddib]

might as well try to find a '41 Johnson and buy that.

 

[chunk]

i just bought a k-31 & a mosin 91/30

 

[sctman800]

I just bought a 59/66 SKS; a M38 and91/30 Mosin-Nagant's. I have been thinking about a K-31 but I will probably go ahead with another Mosin-Nagant, this time an M-44, then a K-31. Jim.