Surplus Arms Shopping

[Gil Martin]

A visit to a local gun shop with a good supply of surplus arms was interesting. There were a lot of Russian 1891/30 rifles and 1944 carbines on the racks and some had dark bores. The number of 1895 Steyr carbines was hard to believe along with German Kar98k rifles that were last owned by their Russian captors. I did see a few Yugoslav 24/47 rifles that were mismatched and had heavily sanded stocks. The were a very few Model 1896 Swedes on hand and were all priced just south of $300.00. Looks like the surplus arms market is going through a transition as the supply of excellent and mint rifles may be declining while prices are marching upward. My recommendation would be if you want a nice surplus rifle and see it at a decent price, better grab it. All the best...
Gil

[gumpokc]

I have to agree with you Gil, the prices aren't going to go down, and if anything, supply will eventually dwindle.

On the other hand, alot of older collectors are passing on (may they rest in peace) and some _very_ nice gems can suddenly appear almost anywhere, so keep your eyes open.

[Adam Helmer]

gumpokc,

You got it right about older collectors passing on. About 3 or 4 times a year I put an ad in our weekly "Penny Saver" paper about me looking for military uniforms, arms and equipment.

That is how I got my Lugers, many WWII uniforms and related gear. In a blouse pocket of a Marine Lance Corporal's uniform was a partial dental plate, a set of dog tags and a love letter dated May 5, 1944.

Yes, lots of stuff is shaking out of the woodwork these days. We have our big annual gun show in Morris, PA next weekend. I go to see how valuable my stuff has become since the last gunshow in Morris. I am looking for Mannlicher clips and ammo for my Austrian M1895 8x50Rmm straight pull rifle and my M1907/15 Mannlicher Berthier French rifle.

When we pass on, lots of great stuff will be up for grabs. I hope my stuff goes to folks who will treasure a good find as I did. Whatever.

Adam

[gumpokc]

Agreed Adam!

When I pass I might not have the "best" toys, but I know I have a few that will be a pleasent surprise for someone