Are milsurp markets still worth it?

[Alan]

How's the military surplus market looking these days? I remember when you could get a Mosin for less than $100 and stock up on surplus ammo without worrying. Now it feels like everything is either running low or priced like it's a rare collectible. Are there still some good deals out there if you know where to search, or have most of the great imports already been picked over? Is it still worth it?

 

[Bobcat]

The really good collectible stuff is still out there but becoming hard to find. The best sources for these IMHO are estate auctions. The prices, like everything else, are sky high. Good stuff can be found on gunbroker but there is a lot of overpriced junk on there also. The run of the mill shooter grade guns are (again in my opinion) mostly overpriced but available. In short, I think they are not worth the effort. There are less expensive options for most recreational shooters.

 

[Alan]

The really good collectible stuff is still out there but becoming hard to find. The best sources for these IMHO are estate auctions. The prices, like everything else, are sky high. Good stuff can be found on gunbroker but there is a lot of overpriced junk on there also. The run of the mill shooter grade guns are (again in my opinion) mostly overpriced but available. In short, I think they are not worth the effort. There are less expensive options for most recreational shooters.

I’d choose a solid used production rifle or a modern surplus-style clone any day. You still get a fun, reliable gun for some casual shooting or hunting, without the collector prices or the stress of hidden problems. But if you do find a real estate auction gem, that’s great. Just be ready to walk away if the price goes too high

 

[sheriffjohn]

It is difficult for me, personally, to pay more for a run-of-the-mill military surplus gun than for a used car. Gotta understand, guys my age remember stacks of mausers, moison nagants, .303 enfields, etc. for less than 20 bucks (ten dollars more if they were "sporterized"). People made lamps out of them. Getting excited over the STILL run-of-the mill surplus bolt-action rifles in far less than pristine condition, to me, is not happening.

But, here we sit with guns we bought for next to nothing, watching prices soar also makes me happy. Haven't seen a "bargain" in a very long time. Yes, they're fun, but most of what I've seen at gun shows and online are pretty common stuff. Finding Ammo at Wal-Mart for a 7.7 Jap or an 8mm Mauser probably won't happen.

 

[nuffSaid_]

It is difficult for me, personally, to pay more for a run-of-the-mill military surplus gun than for a used car. Gotta understand, guys my age remember stacks of mausers, moison nagants, .303 enfields, etc. for less than 20 bucks (ten dollars more if they were "sporterized"). People made lamps out of them. Getting excited over the STILL run-of-the mill surplus bolt-action rifles in far less than pristine condition, to me, is not happening.

But, here we sit with guns we bought for next to nothing, watching prices soar also makes me happy. Haven't seen a "bargain" in a very long time. Yes, they're fun, but most of what I've seen at gun shows and online are pretty common stuff. Finding Ammo at Wal-Mart for a 7.7 Jap or an 8mm Mauser probably won't happen.

I somehow agree with you on this

 

[sheriffjohn]

I do gun shows to thin my herd of projects I'll never finish, low-grade clunkers, and also sell for widows/heirs. It's interesting to see some of the apparently incoming "surplus" guns offered. One in particular, the .303 "Jungle Carbine" comes to mind b/c long ago one of my friends (WWII vet) shot one years ago. What I'm seeing are not original but made up and being sold as original for $500-$600. Anyway ....