There was a time when military surplus rifles were just… cheap. That’s not a joke—real, functional firearms like the Mosin-Nagant could be had for under $100. SKS rifles were going for about $150. You’d see crates of these old warhorses lined up at gun shows, still in cosmoline, just waiting for someone to give them a second life. Back then, collecting surplus rifles was a hobby almost anyone could afford. Today? It’s a whole different world.
Why The Boom? Blame Games, Movies, and Millennials
A big part of the surge in prices comes from unexpected places, like video games. Gamers who fell in love with World War I and II rifles in titles like Battlefield started chasing down real-world versions. Suddenly, the obscure Martini-Henry was on everyone’s radar. Movies and pop culture also played a role, bringing forgotten rifles back into the spotlight. That curiosity has transformed into demand, and demand always drives prices up.
The SKS: From $200 to Over $1,000
The SKS is a textbook example of how insane the market has become. Chinese Norinco SKS rifles once sold new in the box for around $200. Those same guns, untouched and still soaked in grease, now push past $1,000. Imports were cut off years ago, which only made the price go even higher. The same rule applies across the board – supply is shrinking, demand is exploding, and the price tags are following.
Mosin-Nagants: No Longer the Budget Bolt Gun
Ask any long-time gun owner, and they’ll tell you about the days when $79 would buy you a Mosin-Nagant. Yes, really. For under a hundred bucks, you could grab a rifle with serious historical roots and decent accuracy. These days, even rough Mosins start around $350–$400, with better examples priced far higher. It’s no longer a bargain bin rifle – it’s a collector’s item.
The K31: Still a Sleeper – For Now
One of the few surplus rifles that hasn’t completely broken the bank is the Swiss K31. These straight-pull service rifles were made with incredible precision, and yet, you can still snag one for around $450–$500. If they were made today with the same quality materials, they’d cost thousands to manufacture. They’re a hidden gem, still affordable and undervalued, but that won’t last forever. Once people catch on, expect prices to jump.
Collectibility Adds Fuel to the Fire
Surplus rifles aren’t just tools – they’re artifacts. And collectors want them. Especially rifles with matching serial numbers, rare markings, or troop tags. People are even hunting for specific serial number ranges to match pieces they already own. If you find a rare batch of consecutive-numbered K31s with bayonets, you’re not just holding guns – you’re holding money. That collector demand is one of the biggest reasons prices are no longer sane.
The Portuguese Vergueiro: A Budget Winner
Not every cool surplus rifle is outrageously priced. Some, like the Portuguese Vergueiro Mauser, are still hiding in plain sight. Built on a modified Mauser action, it shoots 8mm and offers a light, slim profile that handles beautifully. You can still grab one for around $400, which is a steal compared to German Mausers that go for double or triple that. If you want a solid shooter with style, this is a great choice.
The Finnish M39: Rarer Than You Think
Many people lump the Finnish M39 in with the more common Russian Mosins, but that’s a mistake. Only about 275,000 M39s were made, compared to over 44 million M91/30s. That makes them drastically more rare, and collectors know it. Even beat-up M39s start around $500–$550 now, with nicer ones clearing $1,000 easily. Some are willing to pay top dollar for a specific marking or a serial number that matches one they already own.
It’s Not Just Inflation – It’s Education
One reason prices have jumped is that people are just smarter now. Information is easier to access. Forums, videos, and books have taught a new generation of collectors what makes a particular rifle valuable. That deeper knowledge fuels niche demand. If you’re selling a common surplus rifle to a guy who knows you’ve got an Austrian capture mark on it, don’t be surprised when he pulls out a fat stack of cash.
Estate Sales and Gun Shows: Where Deals Still Happen
There’s still room to score good deals, especially at estate sales or gun shows. Sellers often price things high, not knowing the actual value, or hoping someone will just pay without question. But cash talks. Haggling isn’t rude – it’s expected. A gun marked at $500 might leave the table for $350 if you’re friendly and willing to negotiate. And if you buy in bulk? Even better. Discounts grow with quantity.
Knowledge Is Still Your Best Weapon
Knowing what you’re looking at makes a massive difference. At one gun show, a buyer spotted a few underpriced Finnish M91s and snagged them for a bargain because the seller didn’t realize what he had. It’s moments like that where sharp-eyed collectors win big. A seemingly “ordinary” surplus rifle might be rare because of a specific production year, a special stock, or a unique arsenal mark. Always do your homework.
Are Surplus Prices Really Out of Control?
That depends on how you look at it. Yes, compared to 20 or 30 years ago, prices are sky-high. But it’s not just hype or panic buying – it’s supply and demand. The market is maturing. As older collectors pass away and younger ones jump in, knowledge spreads and prices follow. That doesn’t mean you can’t still build a great collection. It just means you need to be smart about it.
Don’t Panic – But Don’t Wait Either
Personally, I think the window isn’t closed yet – but it’s getting narrower. Rifles like the K31, the Portuguese Vergueiro, and even some untouched Martini-Henrys are still within reach. But if history is any guide, those too will double or triple in price over the next decade. If you’ve been on the fence about picking up a military surplus rifle, now’s the time. Waiting might just price you out for good.
The Market Has Changed – So Should Your Approach
The days of cheap crates and $50 Mosins are gone. But opportunity hasn’t vanished. You just have to change how you hunt. Learn the differences between common and rare variants. Practice negotiation. Look in places others overlook. And above all, know what you’re buying. The market might be wild, but with the right approach, you can still come out ahead.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.