About Paul Johnston Expertise I can answer most questions regarding firearms, their use, function, action etc. with a focus on german firearms my speciality.
Experience I am a registered Federal Firearms Licensed dealer. and am owner of Johnston Small Arms Co. . I am a part-time gunsmith and full-time gun enthusiast.
Organizations Pro-Gun NH, Gun Owners of NH (G.O.N.H.), Life memeber NRA, Instructor NRA., member North American Hunting Club.
Education/Credentials I have a certificate in machining, and have apprenticed with Ed Lander of NH for 5 years, a full-time gunsmith since 1946.
Question I am looking for advice on purchasing a rifle for distance shooting say 300 yards or more. I am just a beginner and want something fun and cheap to get me started. A friend of mine purchased a Mauser. It was very worn but seems to function well. Any suggestions on what to purchase and where? I live in Southern California but travel to Arizona often and do most of my shooting there. Thanks, john zunich
Answer Already answered you. A cheap Mauser is the best route. Accurate, cheap ammo, fun to shoot. And it's even legal in California as it is a 5 shot fixed mag. Have one extra onhand should you need. Thanks for the question.
Any good Mauser will do. Right now Yugoslavian Mausers are the cheapest and most plentiful if you just want one to shoot. They are a bit ugly on the outside but they are "diamnonds in the rough" and clean up quite nicely. You either want one with the bolt numbered to match the receiver, or one that has had it's headspace checked, or at least fired to check for signs of excessive pressure/headspace. I will be listing one this week if you are interested. Probably could sell to you for $125. shipping included. The good thing with the Mausers is that they are California legal. I would need to ship it to a dealer in your state though unless you have a FFL or C&R license. The Mausers are now up to about $95.-100. dealer price as of this week. Thanks. Paul
