Newbie help purchasing a rifle..

[sapper740]

Originally posted by Charette
I'll spare the long post, but essentially i'm looking for some help on deciding what to buy.

Just assume i know nothing and need all the advice you collector/restorers have. Reading and studying all this stuff is much different than actually owning it right? This would be my first firearm, and definately not the last

Anyways, i'm looking at aquiring either the following:

- Enfield No.4 Preferably a longbranch one!
- M1 Garand
- Tokarev SVT 40

Looking for mostly answers to common questions like what i need to watch out for, and how much time/money it might cost to keep something in excellent firing condition. At least within a reasonable budget (still deep in studies..).

Maybe even a good reputable place to get things from. Open to any advice that may help me buy the right thing and enjoy it.

Having owned all three at one time or another in Canada, I can offer you some advice. If this is your first firearm, then you have not been grandfathered to own any firearms that have been deemed "Prohibited." You need to check with the C.F.C. to see if the Tokarev is either "restricted" or "prohibited" The magazine, if unaltered, will be prohibited as it holds ten rounds of 7.62X54R.
Over 3 1/2 million Garands were made by Springfield Armory, Winchester Repeating Arms, International Harvester, and Harrington and Richardson for the U.S. Army. Prices will range from reasonably expensive to very expensive as Garands are mostly snapped up by collectors. Some will be original while some will be arsenal rebuilds with no concern for matching components. Only an expert will be able to tell you what a particular Garand is worth.
Of course, I've saved the best for last. The Long Branch No4Mk1. Once again, only an expert will be able to truly evalute any firearm you wish to purchase, both for rarity and condition. Try to find one that has matching serial numbers, bore is bright and shiny and the rifling is crisp.
Purchasing a WW II firearm needs to be researched fully as there are many variations, manufacturers, and models which can greatly affect the price. Volumes have been written about all of these weapons and I heartily recommend you avail yourself of some of these books to be a better informed buyer.