What year k31(milsurp) to buy?

[GunNewb]

So this is kind of a general question, both my brother and I have been looking at milsurp rifles lately. When picking from an online dealer (id rather see the gun but its not possible) what kind of things do you ask for?

Would you ask for a newer year for a model with less wear.

Or an older one with more historical value?

Do you just tell them to pick you a nice one?
Any other things youd ask before buying?

 

[tiriaq]

One more recently made could have been shot more than an older one. Similarly age may or may not be related to condition.
Go for condition, rather than age. If you are planning on shooting it a lot, bore condition might be more important than appearance. All the Swiss rifles are extremely well made, they didn't use any production shortcuts.
Many of these did see service, have nicks and dings to prove it.
Some of the nicest ones were the ex police rifles sold in Alberta.
You may have a choice between a walnut and a beech stock if this matters.
If you want a really nice one, look for one of the ones sold commercially on the civilian market. Some of these are even in .308. Thirty years ago, they retailed for about $1000.

 

[MacGonnigal]

Lots of good info on the Milsurps.com website:

ht tp://www.milsurps.com/content.php?r=284-1941-Swiss-Model-1931-Short-Rifle-%28K31%29

There's info there about the changes the K31 went through over the years of its production.

But I agree that individual rifle condition is likely more important now. My K31 is from the early 40's and even though the stock is "experienced" it can still shoot like a dam. When I bought it some months back, the bore and internals were shiny and in excellent condition. She's definitely a smoooooth operator....