The Mosin sounds good in theory, but there are issues to consider. I gunsmith for a living and can tell you that commonly replaced parts on the Mosin are in fairly short supply when compared to a lot of bolt rifles. Another issue is that there is not a lot of brass cased ammo out there. You will be hard pressed to find cases to reload in a SHTF scenario.
“find cases to reload”
True. Up until recently surplus was cheap and easy to find. I bought a few crates, so I am good supply wise. trouble is, most ranges won’t let you shoot steel core ammo anymore.
You’re correct, but the milsurp corrosive, steel core stuff is still out there for about 20 cents a round, by the case. Can’t reload good brass for that, considering you have to use .303 bullets (.311).
Bought some arsenaled peace-time hex receivers awhile back; be awhile before they wear out and then we’ll make the parts we need.
“You will be hard pressed to find cases to reload in a SHTF scenario.”
There are quite a few people who reload for the Mosin 91/30. I have no idea where they get their cartridge cases but apparently they are able to get enough of them to keep them happy.