I have one that I bought for 80 bucks. I shortened the barrel by about 3 inches, installed an after market fiberglass stock with a monte carlo cheekpiece, did a trigger job and mounted a 2.5 power long eye relief scope where the original rear sights were.
It makes a fine scout type rifle for deer and black bear. The 7.62 X 54 round is quite adequate for most North American game. Kicks like hell though.
Agree with the kick. Like a pissed off mule. I have an M44, the carbine with a folding bayonet. I have found that Tula ammunition is the worst for that. I found some Winchester (I think) that was a little softer. Whenever I shoot that sucker, I think of old pictures of Russian women carrying one. Always carrying, never seemed to be shooting though. Maybe, just maybe I know why.
***I have one that I bought for 80 bucks.***
Back in the 1960s, most hardware stores had barrels full of SMLEs, 1888 German “Commission” and Turkish Mausers for $5.00 each.
Cash and carry. M-98 and Springfields were higher.
But, that was before that travesty, the 1968 gun Control Law.