You have one advantage - rifles on the east coast can be a little easier to find an slightly less expensive than the west coast. I agree with all the posts above - if you want to be collector do your research. There may be books at your library to get started - there is alot of information on this site. I chose to buy books on each type I own but that can get expensive in itself. The history of the firearm makes collecting worth it for me. If all you want is cheap military surplus you're limited to buying a random mosin online for about $100. There are Hungarianicon/Austrian straight pulls available for less than $200 online also as well as Yugoicon Mausers for about $250. I would check all the gun stores and pawn shops in your area to get a feel for what's out there and the condition of these old rifles. Between the cost of the rifle and ammo I have not found it to be a 'cheap' hobby. Good luck.