How do you tell if a MN PU sniper is original or.....?

[Badger]

Have you reviewed the "all correct" example with the 103 picture photo montage in the MKL (Milsurp Knowledge Library)?

1944 Mosin-Nagant M91-30 Sniper Rifle (Mfg by Ishevsk Arsenal)

Perhaps becoming familiar with the markings and other nuances of that piece, will help you compare to examples you may find for sale in the marketplace.

BTW, $499 sounds like a good price for an authentic PU sniper ..

Regards,
Badger