M-44 truck gun

[nelly]

So, please forgive me, because I'm pretty sure that this topic MUST have come up (I just find the search tool here about as useful square tires on my car)...

Those M-44's are CHEAP!!!! I have read several threads / other sites that swear they are nigh indestructible, and can be accurate.

My big concern on getting one of these bargains for a "truck gun", is that the 7.62x54R ammo SEEMS to have dried up (for now). Am I wrong?

Also, please let me know if my conclusions about the M-44s are accurate:
- Inexpensive;
- Mechanically simple;
- Laminated stock more "badness" resistant than regular timber (I live on the wet coast, so this is an issue);
- Later production better, with the double ended doodad for the bayonet lug / mount / hinge whatchamacallit;
- Polish M44s are the Holy Grail of these beasties;
- Recoil makes my No5 Enfield look like a "light beer".

Thanks for your thoughts!

Neal

 

[Stevo]

There's 54R in the country right now, I know at least Epps and Frontier have it.

I think the M38 is a better truck gun. It's lighter and the cleaner lines make it easier to remove if you've got it in a soft case behind the seat.

Hardwood M38:

Laminate M44:

Polish M44. They're very nice rifles. I wouldn't bang a good one around in my truck:

 

[alexD92]

M44 is more useful, you can use the bayonet on the end to cook marshmallows.

 

[Stevo]

M44 is more useful, you can use the bayonet on the end to cook marshmallows.

I use the bayo to hold the rifle upright when I'm taking a leak.

 

[762shooter]

Del Selin Gunsmith in Vernon has 7.62 x 54 light ball, 89 headstamped Czech milsurp ammo at $5.95/box of 20.

I don't find the recoil bad with the light ball altho I didn't enjoy shooting the heavy ball out of my 44.

I find the operating the bolt is kind of clumsy compared to most other bolt action rifles. In my opinion, a Lee Enfield makes a better truck gun. I has a much smoother bolt and a 10 shot detachable magazine.

 

[cyclone]

In my opinion, a Lee Enfield makes a better truck gun. I has a much smoother bolt and a 10 shot detachable magazine.

Agreed, but you won't find the $5.95/20 rounds price for .303...

Those M-44's are CHEAP!!!!

Neal, where'd you get yours?

 

[nelly]

I don't have one - yet. Am considering it, as they are just the cost of seven boxes of .303 ammunition at Tradex (banner at top)!

And you never know when a bayo might come in handy.