Advice on buying an SVT-40

[jcuffe6240]

I have recently got really into the Russian WWII milsurps and am looking to expand my collection. I will shortly be getting a Mosin 91/30 and M44, but I would also like to add an SVT-40. Could anyone provide me some advice on what arsenal to buy, year of manufacture, etc? I would like be shooting it a few times a year, once I build up my ammo reserves.

Also, does it matter if the stock has been repaired with small patches? Does this effect the integrate of the rifle?

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[maple_leaf_eh]

There are at least 2 waves of SVT40s to choose from. The earlier Finnish capture rifles, marked SA on the receiver. Or the later laser marked German rearsenal-ed rifles, recognizable by the plum coloured breech block carriers.

The earlier ones are almost guaranteed to be battlefield veterans, used in battle first by the Russians and then by the Finns. The second wave has no especial soul, but are available, cheap and function as promised.

As long as you get the corrosive gas residues off the gas system after firing, good luck. Either one will do.