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How To Buy Military Surplus Guns
created: 10/3/2023 11:34 AM in GEAR

How To Buy Military Surplus Guns


Finding the right military surplus firearms can be tricky without the right guidance. Our guide is here to help, making it easy for you to understand the quality, age, and condition of the firearm you're interested in.

While new rifles are tempting to buy, they can be pricey. An excellent alternative? Military surplus rifles. These older guns have a rich history, having been used in real-world situations. They're reliable, work just as well as newer models, and are often more affordable.

It's also worth noting that ARMSLIST is the go-to online firearms marketplace for finding and buying these unique firearms, ensuring you get a good deal.

Whether you're new to the world of surplus rifles or already familiar, this article will highlight some top choices and why they're a great fit for any collection.

Where to buy military surplus guns

Shop ARMSLIST to discover a wide range of military classics and historical firearms available online. 

This distinctive collection features antique guns specifically tailored or chosen for military application, as well as modern firearms influenced by iconic designs from history.

Within this collection, you'll find pistols, revolvers, and rifles from renowned brands like Auto-Ordnance, Browning, Carl Gustav, Century Arms, Colt, Chinese State Factories, FN, Mauser, Russian State Factories, Springfield Armory, and others.

Whether you're seeking a collector's item or an everyday carry pistol with a vintage touch, ARMSLIST's selection of military classics and historical firearms caters to all aficionados. Our listings are detailed and straightforward, and our pricing is competitive.

 If you have any questions or require further information about a listing, our approachable team is always ready to help, just a phone call or click away.

Why Should You Buy Military Surplus Guns

Both seasoned and new firearm enthusiasts may occasionally overlook the realm of military surplus firearms, deeming them exclusively for dedicated collectors.

Yet, these surplus rifles cater to many preferences that are universally appealing:

  • Enjoyable to use? Certainly.
  • Visually appealing for display? Absolutely.
  • Cost-effective? Often, yes.
  • Rich in historical significance? Undoubtedly.

For those conscious of their spending, expanding a firearm collection while staying on budget can be daunting, especially with the allure of state-of-the-art models like a fully-equipped AR-15. 

While such rifles are indeed impressive and enjoyable at the range, they can significantly impact one's budget, not to mention the added cost of ammunition, particularly for semi-automatics.

In contrast, military surplus firearms present a more economical choice without compromising on quality or experience.

In summary, military surplus rifles merit consideration for both budding and seasoned firearm enthusiasts, serving as exceptional options for shooters across all experience levels.

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What To Avoid When Buying Military Surplus Guns

When getting into the world of surplus firearms, particularly for those seeking both functionality and authenticity, certain factors need close attention. Understanding these nuances ensures a safer and more valuable acquisition.

Muzzle Damage

Muzzles in good condition are crucial for maintaining a firearm's accuracy. If you're seeking a firearm for shooting, it's advisable to avoid those with damaged muzzles. While minor damage can sometimes be rectified without diminishing the firearm's value, it's important to note that the condition of the bore can also influence shootability.

Over-sanded Stocks

When purchasing rifles, be cautious of those with stocks that appear to have been excessively sanded or scraped. This is often a technique used to mask imperfections such as dents, scratches, or old finishes. Telltale signs include uneven wood surfaces, ill-fitting components, or visible protrusions. Not only does this compromise the firearm's authentic markings, but it might also introduce structural vulnerabilities, jeopardizing the integrity and safety of the rifle.

Changes to the Original Chamber and Barrel

Lastly, it's essential to ensure that the firearm retains its original cartridge specifications. Modifications such as re-chambering or re-barreling can impact bullet seating, which in turn can cause undue pressure, potentially damaging the firearm. An optimal firearm should function seamlessly, without posing any operational challenges.

In addition to the above points, when considering the purchase of a firearm, it's beneficial to check its provenance and maintenance history. This will provide insight into its past use, care, and any potential issues that may not be immediately visible.

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Military Surplus Guns For Sale

SKS Rifles

The SKS, an acronym for "Samozaryadny Karabin sistemy Simonova," is a Soviet-designed semi-automatic carbine. First introduced in 1945, the SKS quickly became a standard-issue rifle for Soviet forces. It features a gas-operated system, a 10-round internal box magazine, and typically fires the 7.62x39mm round. Renowned for its reliability and robust construction, the SKS has seen service in numerous conflicts worldwide. Many variants have been produced by different nations, with China's Type 56 being particularly notable.

Search Listings For SKS Rifles

M1 Garand

The M1 Garand, developed by John Garand for the U.S. military, became the first semi-automatic rifle to be standard issue for any nation's military. Serving from the 1930s to the 1950s, it's best known for its role in World War II and the Korean War. Chambered for .30-06 Springfield ammunition, the M1's distinctive "ping" sound upon ejecting its en-bloc clip is iconic. This 8-round capacity rifle is often termed "the greatest battle implement ever devised."

Search Listings For The M1 Garand

M1 Carbine

Designed during WWII as a lighter and more compact alternative to the M1 Garand, the M1 Carbine is a semi-automatic rifle that became a staple for U.S. troops, especially for paratroopers and support personnel. Firing the .30 Carbine round from a detachable magazine, its variants include models with folding stocks and different sight configurations. Its compact nature and ease of use ensured its popularity both in military and civilian markets.

Search Listings For The M1 Carbine

Yugo M48 Mauser

The M48 Mauser is a post-World War II version of the famous bolt-action rifle series, primarily made in Yugoslavia. Designed as the mainstay of their armed forces, it’s chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser and built to be robust and reliable. While visually similar to earlier Mauser designs, the M48 has specific distinctions in its construction and design.

Search Listings For The Yugo M48 Mauser

Russian Mosin Nagant Rifle

Introduced in the 1890s, the Mosin Nagant is a bolt-action rifle that served as the primary Russian and Soviet infantry rifle for over half a century. Distinguished by its unique hexagonal or round receiver, it's chambered for the 7.62x54R cartridge. With tens of millions produced, its history spans from Tsarist Russia, through both World Wars, to various conflicts around the globe.

Search Listings For The Russian Mosin Nagant

M14 Paratrooper Rifle

An evolution of the M1 Garand, the M14 rifle was adopted by the U.S. military in the 1950s. The "Paratrooper" variant, with its distinctive folding stock, was designed for airborne forces. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the M14 features a 20-round detachable magazine. While replaced as a standard service rifle, it's still in limited use, particularly in a designated marksman role.  Though there are more than a few civilian variants, the most popular is the Springfield Armory M1A.

Search Listings For The M14 Rifle (M1A)

US Model 1903 Springfield .30-06

An American classic, the bolt-action Springfield 1903 was adopted as the U.S. military's standard-issue rifle leading up to WWI. With its strong Mauser-inspired action and chambering in the powerful .30-06 cartridge, it remained in service through WWII, often seeing use as a sniper rifle due to its accuracy.

Search Listings For the 1903 Springfield .30-06

Swiss K31 Carbine Rifle

The Swiss K31 is a straight-pull bolt-action rifle, famed for its precision and craftsmanship. Used by the Swiss military from the 1930s to the 1950s, it’s chambered in 7.5x55mm Swiss. Notable for its unique action and superb accuracy, the K31 is a favorite among collectors and marksmen alike.

Search Listings for the Swiss K31

Italian M91 Carcano Cavalry Carbine

The M91 Carcano is an Italian bolt-action rifle series. The "Cavalry Carbine" is a shorter variant with a folding bayonet, designed for mounted troops. Serving in both World Wars, it's chambered in various cartridges over the years, including 6.5x52mm Carcano.

Search Listings For The Italian M91

Enfield Jungle Carbine

The "Jungle Carbine" is the informal term for the Rifle No. 5 Mk I, a derivative of the British Lee-Enfield design. It's a shorter, lighter version created for airborne troops and combat in dense terrains, such as jungles. With its distinctive flash suppressor and chambering in .303 British, it served in the latter part of WWII and post-war conflicts.

Search Listings For The Enfield Jungle Carbine

For a wide range of military surplus firearms, consider using ARMSLIST, a comprehensive platform for all your needs.

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Wrapping It Up!

While this article provides an overview, it barely scratches the surface of the vast array of surplus firearms available to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

In essence, military surplus firearms offer a unique blend of shooting enjoyment, historical appreciation, entry-level gunsmithing, and even hunting opportunities. 

Should you embark on this journey, be prepared: a simple quest for one rifle might evolve into a passionate pursuit, leading you to seek even more additions for your collection.

For all your military surplus firearm needs, turn to ARMSLIST - your trusted and comprehensive online platform.

created: 10/3/2023 11:34 AM in GEAR


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