I love both guns and choosing between them is like choosing a favourite child.
The K31 is more interesting mechanically and has a bit better trigger.
The Swedish Mausers are a fair bit cheaper $600-800 vs. K31 prices around $800-1000
M96 long rifles are cheaper than the M38 carbines
6.5x55 is arguably a better cartridge overall. Less recoil, feels great to shoot, FLAT trajectory, and the fact new rifles are still made in the calibre.
6.5 Swede will also take every animal on this continent short of Polar bears, Grizzlies or larger moose... but note that this round has taken more Scandinavian moose than other other round. Any animal up to about 400-500lbs is well within the 6.5's capabilities.
7.5x55 is great, but it is effectively identical to .308 in performance, diameter, bullets etc.
I personally would edge the M38 carbine over the K31. M38 is cheaper, lighter, MUCH easier to source parts for, less recoil, more ammo choices available. Also much easier to do custom work if needed. Not only are Swede parts very available, but they're quite cheap too relative to other milsurps.
The K31 is more interesting mechanically and has a bit better trigger.
The Swedish Mausers are a fair bit cheaper $600-800 vs. K31 prices around $800-1000
M96 long rifles are cheaper than the M38 carbines
6.5x55 is arguably a better cartridge overall. Less recoil, feels great to shoot, FLAT trajectory, and the fact new rifles are still made in the calibre.
6.5 Swede will also take every animal on this continent short of Polar bears, Grizzlies or larger moose... but note that this round has taken more Scandinavian moose than other other round. Any animal up to about 400-500lbs is well within the 6.5's capabilities.
7.5x55 is great, but it is effectively identical to .308 in performance, diameter, bullets etc.
I personally would edge the M38 carbine over the K31. M38 is cheaper, lighter, MUCH easier to source parts for, less recoil, more ammo choices available. Also much easier to do custom work if needed. Not only are Swede parts very available, but they're quite cheap too relative to other milsurps.
