What should be my next WWII era firearm?

[I.H.1989]

I'd offer him $275 and see if he'll split the difference at $300. Receiver and bolt both look finish worn. Finish on stock looks worn also but all in all not a bad example, especially if it all matches.

I actually thought that he would be insulted by offering 275, but i offered $300 and he said he would accept it. I honestly didn't think he would. If i had know that, i would have gone lower, lol.

I did get a little more information on the rifle from him: "Gun shoots fine and pitting is lite/medium but can be found on all the metal surfaces around the action area and trigger guard area."

I am unsure if this will be the best offer i would get for a while, but I will defer to the judgement of others on here. Would it be a good idea to purchase it, or wait until one in better condition comes up?

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[rcathey]

I get the impression you’re a younger guy (no offense intended as you will see).
I’d wager that I’m even younger than you! Personally, I play that in my favor when I’m buying my guns. If I’m right in my assumption, you’ll have this gun for a loooooong time. $300 now is nothing. When I first starting collecting C&R guns, Mosins were $99...see what I mean?
Besides, Japanese guns are undervalued..at least I think they are. The Arisaka is a fine and super tough action absolutely steeped in history. Maybe not all good history but that doesn’t stop folks from going gaga over 98Ks.

[Aragorn243]

Carcano's are all over the place. Many reasons, quite a few different types being one and some guys thinking they arent worth much to those that are starting to collect them. A 91 is probably the most expensive, good ones start around $400. 38's next averaging today around $300, then the carbines with the folding bayonets, then everything else. Find the right guy and you can still get any of them for $100 but that is getting harder and harder these days. Two different calibers for the carbines and 38's. Vast majority will fall between $200-$300.

[Aragorn243]

My personal feelings, you made an offer, he accepted. The deal is done unless he's hiding something about the gun. I don't back out on deals. That being said, I think it's an OK deal or I wouldn't have recommended it. Never worry about offering too little however, it's part of the rifle world. They can always say no. If they laugh at you and act offended, walk away. I have made offers of half what they are asking. Been accepted once and laughed at once. But the laughing dude was way overpriced and I knew it and had no interest in dealing with him.

[I.H.1989]

I get the impression you’re a younger guy (no offense intended as you will see).
I’d wager that I’m even younger than you! Personally, I play that in my favor when I’m buying my guns. If I’m right in my assumption, you’ll have this gun for a loooooong time. $300 now is nothing. When I first starting collecting C&R guns, Mosins were $99...see what I mean?
Besides, Japanese guns are undervalued..at least I think they are. The Arisaka is a fine and super tough action absolutely steeped in history. Maybe not all good history but that doesn’t stop folks from going gaga over 98Ks.

Yeah, I am a "younger guy" but ot sure if i am younger than you. I did get my first Mosin at the same price that you mention, and it came with the bayonet, cleaning kit, and bayonet lug

My personal feelings, you made an offer, he accepted. The deal is done unless he's hiding something about the gun. I don't back out on deals. That being said, I think it's an OK deal or I wouldn't have recommended it. Never worry about offering too little however, it's part of the rifle world. They can always say no. If they laugh at you and act offended, walk away. I have made offers of half what they are asking. Been accepted once and laughed at once. But the laughing dude was way overpriced and I knew it and had no interest in dealing with him.

Well, thank you for your input. I think i will get hte rifle, nad I will be sure to post some pictures of it when i get it. I just have to hope that the man hasn't sold it between not and the next time we get in touch.

[rcathey]

Yeah, I am a "younger guy" but ot sure if i am younger than you. I did get my first Mosin at the same price that you mention, and it came with the bayonet, cleaning kit, and bayonet lug

The good ol' days. I don't even own a Mosin anymore but I'd take a couple of the Nagant revolvers if I could find those at $99 again!

[antiqucycle]

K31 whenever you spot one as they are probably less made than well known rifles and they will hold their value. You don't need tp be concerned about corrosive ammo..
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