Collectors say these 6 military surplus rifles are becoming harder to track down every year

Military surplus rifles hold a unique place in the world of firearms. Some are legendary battlefield icons, others are historical relics, but all are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

While many of these rifles were once available in large numbers, time and demand have made them increasingly scarce. Whether you’re looking for a rugged bolt-action workhorse or a semi-automatic piece of history, these surplus rifles are worth the hunt.

1. M1 Garand – The Rifle That Defined a Generation

Few rifles are as iconic as the M1 Garand. A true game-changer in World War II, this semi-automatic powerhouse gave American troops a massive firepower advantage over enemy forces still using bolt-action rifles. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield, it fed from an eight-round en-bloc clip, ejecting with the famous “ping” that has since become legendary among shooters.

The Garand was praised for its accuracy, reliability, and rapid rate of fire, making it a favorite of soldiers and marksmen alike. Today, surviving examples in good condition fetch a premium price, with many collectors hunting down original, wartime-era models. For those looking to get their hands on one, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) remains one of the best ways to obtain an authentic, serviceable M1 Garand at a reasonable cost.

2. Lee-Enfield – The British Bolt-Action That Refused to Quit

The Lee-Enfield family of rifles served British and Commonwealth forces for over half a century. Known for its fast-cycling bolt-action design and robust construction, this rifle gave soldiers an impressive ten-round magazine capacity – a major firepower advantage over many of its contemporaries.

The No. 1 Mk III and No. 4 Mk I are the most common variants found today, with some models even rechambered for 7.62 NATO in later years. The famous “mad minute” drill, where trained soldiers could fire aimed shots at rapid speeds, showcased the rifle’s exceptional speed and handling. While some surplus Lee-Enfields have been “sporterized” by previous owners, original examples in good condition are highly sought after by collectors.

3. Mosin-Nagant – The Workhorse of the Eastern Front

Once the poster child for cheap surplus rifles, the Mosin-Nagant has seen a dramatic increase in price as supply has dwindled. This rugged five-shot bolt-action rifle, chambered in 7.62x54mmR, was the backbone of the Russian and Soviet forces for decades. It saw service through both World Wars and beyond, proving its durability and effectiveness in some of the harshest conditions imaginable.

The M91/30 variant is the most common, but shorter carbine models like the M38 and M44 are also widely collected. While some shooters find the Mosin’s bolt action stiff and its recoil punishing, its history and sheer affordability have made it a staple in the surplus rifle community. Despite their former abundance, Mosin-Nagants are getting harder to find, so if you want one, now is the time to buy.

4. M1903 Springfield – America’s Legendary Precision Rifle

The M1903 Springfield was America’s premier service rifle leading up to World War II, and it remains one of the most accurate and beautifully crafted bolt-action rifles ever issued. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield, it was known for its superb long-range performance, with many later converted into sniper rifles during World War II and beyond.

Its smooth Mauser-style bolt-action and ladder sight allowed for impressive shooting at long distances, making it the rifle of choice for early U.S. military snipers. Today, collectors and precision shooters alike covet the M1903, with prices reflecting its historical significance and craftsmanship. If you’re looking for a surplus rifle that shoots as well as it looks, this is the one.

5. SKS – The Affordable Semi-Auto That Still Rocks

The SKS is often overshadowed by its more infamous cousin, the AK-47, but don’t underestimate this semi-automatic workhorse. Originally designed in the Soviet Union and later manufactured by many other countries, the SKS is chambered in 7.62x39mm and features a 10-round internal magazine that can be loaded with stripper clips.

Compared to other surplus rifles, the SKS is light, well-balanced, and easy to shoot, making it a great option for both collectors and those looking for a reliable, budget-friendly rifle. While the days of $100 SKS rifles are long gone, they remain affordable compared to other surplus semi-autos, and their rugged simplicity ensures they’ll keep running for decades.

6. Gewehr 98 Mauser – The Rifle That Inspired Generations

The Gewehr 98 (or G98) was the German Empire’s primary service rifle from 1898 to 1935, and its legendary Mauser action became the foundation for countless bolt-action rifles around the world. This five-shot, stripper-clip-fed rifle, chambered in 7.92×57mm Mauser, was known for its long-range accuracy, strong action, and reliability.

The G98 saw combat in the Boxer Rebellion, World War I, and beyond, before eventually being replaced by the Karabiner 98k, a shorter variant used in World War II. Despite its age, the Mauser action remains one of the most copied and revered bolt-action designs in firearms history. Collectors value original, non-modified G98s for their historical significance and shooting capability, though sporterized versions do exist.

The Surplus Market is Shrinking—Get Yours While You Can

Surplus rifles were once plentiful and cheap, but those days are quickly fading. Many of these historic firearms have been lost to time, destroyed, or locked away in private collections. With tightening import restrictions and dwindling supplies, the opportunity to own a piece of military history is getting smaller by the year.

For those looking to build a collection or find a reliable vintage shooter, the hunt for a good surplus rifle can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re searching for a rugged bolt-action from World War I or a Cold War-era semi-auto, these rifles tell a story far beyond just being old guns.

The Rise of Sporterized Surplus Rifles

One challenge that collectors often face is the prevalence of sporterized surplus rifles. After World War II and into the mid-20th century, many surplus military rifles were modified by their owners for hunting and civilian use. These modifications often included cut-down stocks, drilled receivers for scopes, and refinished barrels – all of which significantly reduced their historical value. While sporterized rifles can sometimes be restored, finding original, unmodified examples is becoming increasingly difficult.

Despite the negative impact on collector value, sporterized surplus rifles do have a place in the market. Many of these modifications were done decades ago when these rifles were seen as cheap alternatives to commercial hunting rifles. Today, a well-done sporterized rifle can still make an excellent shooter, but for those seeking a true military collector’s piece, original condition is key. If you come across a surplus rifle with its original stock, sights, and markings intact, hold onto it – these are becoming rare gems.

Surplus Ammunition: A Dying Resource

Another consideration when buying a surplus rifle is the availability of ammunition. Many of these rifles were chambered in cartridges that were once military staples but are now harder to find. While rounds like .30-06 Springfield and 7.62x39mm remain widely available due to continued production, others – such as .303 British, 7.62x54mmR, and 7.92×57mm Mauser – are becoming increasingly scarce.

Surplus ammunition once flooded the market at rock-bottom prices, but as supplies dry up, many surplus shooters are forced to rely on commercial manufacturers or even hand-loading their own rounds. Those interested in collecting and shooting these rifles should stock up on ammunition when they can – because as surplus ammo disappears, prices will only climb higher. Reloading is also a great option, ensuring that these historical firearms remain functional for generations to come.

Where to Find Military Surplus Rifles Today

Tracking down military surplus rifles isn’t as simple as walking into your local gun shop anymore. Estate sales, military gun shows, online surplus forums, and specialized collectors’ shops are some of the best places to find these rifles today. Some organizations, like the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP), still provide opportunities to obtain authentic surplus rifles in good condition.

For those willing to put in the time and effort, there are still incredible deals to be found – but they won’t last forever. Whether you’re after a historical relic, a shooting classic, or just a piece of military nostalgia, now is the time to start hunting.