Condition of Milsurps you prefer ??

[GUTS]

I try to buy the nicest example I can, but there are many variables to consider. If I actually target and seek out a certain rifle I will spend the extra money if I have to so I can have a nice rifle. Sometimes a deal comes around that will make you accept a lesser grade of rifle because of time constraints(it's either buy it now or it will be sold to another guy)and sometimes I'll use it as a temporary spot filler untill I can find a better one. The one thing is, all of my rifles whether they are as new or not, get handled like they are made out of nitro-glycerine, I am awful fussy about new handling marks. I have a few different guns but the only one I don't and won't shoot is my 1955 Type III Russian AK. It was built by POH from a PLO kit and it looks like new and I just can't bring myself to put any wear marks on it, it's too purdy.

[Aragorn243]

I can't afford much so I prefer fixer uppers. Rifles in working condition but in need of some tender loving care. I'm not much for the beat up rifles being "history", I like to bring them back to the condition they would have been in at the time of use. Not perfect but cared for. Only qualifications are they are in working condition and that with my limited gunsmithing skills, I can bring them back to what the soldiers NCO's would have approved of.

[samnev]

I'm also partial to the examples with honest wear from actual use. It forces you to recognize the history of the rifle and think about what it's been through.

I've never been very interested in the Lee-Enfield rifles until I found this example at a local gun store. It was the well used condition and the amazing patina on the rifle that made me take a closer look at it and ultimately take it home.

These pictures don't do it justice but you get the idea...

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https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...ll_right-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...IMG_1569-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...10/11/R1-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...10/11/R2-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...10/11/R3-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...t_volley-1.jpg
https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...10/11/R4-1.jpg

That looks to be an early and somewhat rare Mk I***. GREAT GUN, GREAT FIND.

[JerryB08]

I also agree with you all, I shoot everything. Even authentic Civil War Colts. I also love the history marks, but not rust or grime. If I could afford one of those still in the wrapper unfired collector queens the first thing I would do would be to see how she shoot's. Other wise it's an expensive, very pretty paper weight.