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Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Sat Sep 09, 2023 6:13 am
by Asolostory311
About 20 years ago I inherited a 1938 Mosin and I'm trying to understand it's markings and possible value. I don't plan on getting rid of it but I am curious. From what I've gathered so far it's a Tula. Any help would be appreciated.
Re: Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Sun Sep 10, 2023 1:23 am
by Junk Yard Dog
First thing is get some oil on that metal, I see rust, and rust is an awesome way to kill value. Second is the Finn SA stamp, and D stamp plus the Tula star. This is a 1938 Tula made 91/30 that was captured by Finland during their wars with the USSR, Winter war 1939-40, or the continuation war 1941-44. The rifle was reissued to Finnish troops, and is an older import, these came in during the late 1980's and originally sold for around $45. Not sure what they bring now, but $600 or more would be my guess as the Finn marked Mosins are sought after by collectors.
Re: Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Sun Sep 10, 2023 3:53 am
by Asolostory311
Junk Yard Dog wrote: ↑Sun Sep 10, 2023 1:23 am
First thing is get some oil on that metal, I see rust, and rust is an awesome way to kill value. Second is the Finn SA stamp, and D stamp plus the Tula star. This is a 1938 Tula made 91/30 that was captured by Finland during their wars with the USSR, Winter war 1939-40, or the continuation war 1941-44. The rifle was reissued to Finnish troops, and is an older import, these came in during the late 1980's and originally sold for around $45. Not sure what they bring now, but $600 or more would be my guess as the Finn marked Mosins are sought after by collectors.
Thank you so much. What type of oil should I use? I have some regular gun oil if that will work. Should I use anything to scrub it down with to help remove the rust?
Re: Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Mon Sep 11, 2023 1:20 am
by Junk Yard Dog
Gun oil is fine, sewing machine oil, even car motor oil will work. Gently scrubbing the rust with 0000 size steel wool will remove it, just go easy so you don't also remove the finish.
Re: Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Mon Sep 11, 2023 8:16 am
by millman
You can use a bronze brush with the oil to scrub the rust. Bronze will not hurt the finish. Wipe with a clean cloth when done and reoil. I would clean the bore as well.
Re: Inherited 1938 Mosin. Please help
Posted: Mon Sep 11, 2023 3:05 pm
by Asolostory311
For the age and sitting in a storage unit I think it's held up really well. Thanks everyone!