[daveyG]

I think this is a great rifle for anyone to cut their teeth on. I have a russian m44 with the fixed bayonet. its dated 1948 and is in excellent condition but the magazine serial # is crossed out and the proper one that matches everywhere one th rifle is inscribed. I have completley striped the rifle to remove the cosmoline (not restored, just cleaned). It functions properly besides the crooked rear sight. the bore is perfect and the bolt is fairly smooth and most of the ware in the rifle has been caused by myself. Why would you think that only the magazine would be replaced on such a fine rifle?
With all the variants and the history of the Mosin Nagant rifle and revolver I suggest we all get one for fun. They roughly run $60-$250 and are very interesting to watch there progression or degression/...?

 

[Car Knocker]

Why would you think that only the magazine would be replaced on such a fine rifle?

It's called forced-matching. Your M-44 has likely been through at least one arsenal rebuild and, sometimes, all the original parts don't stay with the rifle - thus the need to re-number a newly fitted part.

As a first rifle, I think the M-44 is a bit of a handful. I would prefer to start someone out on a rifle using a less powerful cartridge with less recoil and muzzleblast, and better ergonomics; the experience is apt to be more productive.

 

[daveyG]

You are probably right on that one. I meant to say for someones first antique rifle. it sure does kick like a mule and spits fire too!