Mosin-Nagant 91/59 (7.62x54mmR)
Kim du Toit
May 16, 2008
6:45 AM CDT
Yesterday, we looked at a rare Mauser K98. Today, we’ll continue in that vein with an equally-rare Mosin-Nagant M91—in this case, the 91/59, a carbine version of the venerable 91/30.
The M91/59 was made, as the nomenclature suggests, in the late 1950s from a modified M91/30 action and barrel, and fitted onto the M44 stock. Most seem to have been made in Warsaw Pact countries, but some of the carbines were issued to Soviet troops on garrison/security duty in Mother Russia.
The M91/59 is supposedly even more rare than the Model 38, and certainly more rare than the Model 44. Like the M38, it does not have the integral bayonet of the M44. The difference, however, is that the M91/59 is supposedly more accurate than any of the Mosin carbines—and that alone merits its ownership.
Collectors is asking $225, which, considering its provenance and value, seems like an excellent bargain.
I think it would make an excellent companion piece to my M91/30, but I don’t have the $225 [checks kids’ college fund… nope].
Oh well… I’m sure one of my Readers will give it a good home.
