Working on a long range K-31 Swiss

[busdriver72]

Here it is in it's stock configuration.
For all you purist out there, I too am mostly a purist, so I have no intentions of altering this rifle. I do plan on doing some things to see how I can do at the 400-500 meter range.
I have ordered the clamp-on scope mount, rather than the Scout-type mount. I have the Scout-type on an SKS with a non-magnified M16 type electric optic sight. Eye relief is not an issue with that, and both eyes can be kept open. With the K-31, I will be using a regular, magnified scope, so I wanted it closer to the eye (where a scope normally is.) I have order a Tasco 6-24x40 scope. Tasco isn't the "top end" but they are okay as far as budget priced scopes go. I have also ordered medium height 3/8 dovetail steel rings, which should give me sufficient clearance with the 40mm objective. I seriously thought about getting a muzzle brake, but couldn't currently justify the $70 cost for it. I have ordered a slip-on recoil pad from Yakpads (Shooterpad.) I know that finding a properly sized recoil pad for the K-31 can be an issue, but this one is "universal" and it appears that it will work nicely. It feels nice.
I'm waiting on the items to get delivered, and it appears that I may be waiting a few more days to try it all out because of weather. Seems like when it warms up the wind blows 30mph.
This will be the first time I have scope a rifle like this. Any tips or advice?

Information

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[Badger]

Nice looking K31 and a very early date ....

I'm not really a Swiss shooter, although I do have a virtually unfired ZFK55 sniper rifle (click here) that I've never even taken to the range.

I'm sure diopter on here, who's a Swiss rifle guru amongst others, will be able to answer your questions...

Regards,
Badger

[diopter]

1) Shooting jacket instead of recoil pads. One jacket fits all of your rifles. Canvas jacket about $100.00+
2) I see no reason for a muzzle brake myself.
3) Center the scope adjustments first. Try to mechanically align the rings with the bore, if possible.
4) Have an good, experienced shooter spot for you.
5) Make sure your action screws are tight before you start.
6) Keep a log of every-shot fired.

[busdriver72]

1) Shooting jacket instead of recoil pads. One jacket fits all of your rifles. Canvas jacket about $100.00+
2) I see no reason for a muzzle brake myself.
3) Center the scope adjustments first. Try to mechanically align the rings with the bore, if possible.
4) Have an good, experienced shooter spot for you.
5) Make sure your action screws are tight before you start.
6) Keep a log of every-shot fired.

Thanks, Diopter.
Jacket = $100 Shooterpad = $20.00
The shooting jacket is a good idea, but since I've already got the Shooterpad (which fits very nicely and is good and soft) I'll try using it.
Yeah, I really can't see where a muzzle brake would make $70 worth of difference.
I have a bore sighter due in any day now, and the rings I have allow some windage adjustments.
The fellow that has the range is a long time shooter, so he will be helping me.
Roger on the action screws.
I've never logged my shots. I'll try that. Thanks.

[K31]

What a great looking rifle! Mine is 1941, but it has a beech handguard. Sure looks funny, on the walnut stock! The rifle is so accurate, I just can't bring myself to change anything on it. I did try temporarily floating the barrel, following the advice of an internet expert. Waste of time! Shoots much better the way it was built. They are sensitive to where you hold them, always rest the forearm directly in front of the mag. Have fun! A friend once told me that the Swiss cleaned up at every 600m shoot, out shooting all the other armies.

[busdriver72]

Here it is for its "dress rehersal." In these pics, nothing is tightened down or aligned, but just demonstrating. I also got an Allen rifle case. This things is VERY thickly padded and is roomy enough for a scope.

[Badger]

What a great looking rifle! Mine is 1941, but it has a beech handguard.

Check the Switzerland - Milsurp Knowledge Library (click here)

There's an MKL entry for a 1941 Swiss Model 1931 Short Rifle (K31) (click here)

The rifle displayed in the picture virtual tour there has "all matching" serial numbers, including the bayonet, scabbard and frog. Even the sling is manufactured and marked "E. Wirthlin, Mohlin 1941".

Regards,
Badger

[busdriver72]

That made me drool on my keyboard.

[K31]

The Knowledge Library says that the K31 had a floating barrel. This is incorrect, the K31 was floated to the front band, then tightly bedded with upward pressure. Similar to the LEE ENFIELD No.4 bedding. This info is from the Swiss manual on the K11 and K31.

[busdriver72]

Floating....non-floating. As long as it goes bang and hits where I aim it.
Here she is with everything securely mounted and ready to go. Just waiting for good weather and time.