The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a legendary and enduring piece of firearms history that has left an indelible mark on the world's military and collector communities.

Designed and introduced in the late 19th century and refined over decades, this iconic bolt-action rifle has seen service in some of the most pivotal conflicts of the 20th century, including both World Wars. With its distinctive design, rugged reliability, and storied past, the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 has earned its place as a celebrated firearm among enthusiasts and a symbol of a bygone era.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the rich history, technical specifications, variants, and the enduring legacy of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifle.

Overview of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30

One of the most iconic firearms in the world, the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a historically significant bolt-action rifle that's seen widespread use since its inception in the late 19th century. It became one of the most widely used military rifles in the 20th century. It's a symbol of resilience and reliability, qualities that draw many to its fold.

Originally designed for the Russian Empire, it's seen action in countless theaters of war, showing its versatility and durability. The M91/30's design has been tweaked over the years, but its core has remained unchanged. It's a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its makers. 

A community of enthusiasts, collectors, and historians who appreciate the beauty and power of this iconic weapon. The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is more than a rifle, it's a legacy.

Mosin-Nagant Review

Continuing with the exploration of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, it's time to focus on the review of this historic firearm. The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a historically significant rifle with a robust and durable design that excels in long-range accuracy. Its collectibility and affordability have made it popular among enthusiasts and collectors. However, its outdated design, length, and weight, as well as its limitations in terms of magazine capacity and recoil, make it less suitable for modern combat applications.

Strengths

1. Historical significance: The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is an iconic rifle known for its service in major conflicts of the 20th century, including World War I, World War II, and various other conflicts.
2. Long-range accuracy: With its long barrel and powerful 7.62x54mmR cartridge, the M91/30 is capable of delivering accurate shots at extended ranges, making it suitable for marksmanship at long distances.
3. Rugged and durable: The rifle is built to withstand harsh conditions and has a reputation for reliability and durability. It can continue to function even in challenging environments.
4. Bayonet: Many versions of the M91/30 are equipped with a bayonet, which adds to its historical and iconic appeal.
5. Affordability: Surplus Mosin-Nagant rifles have been widely available and relatively affordable for collectors and enthusiasts, making it accessible to a broad audience.
6. Customization: Enthusiasts often customize their Mosin-Nagant rifles, allowing for personalized modifications, which can improve ergonomics and performance.

Weaknesses

1. Length and weight: The M91/30's long barrel and overall length can make it unwieldy in close quarters and heavy to carry for extended periods.
2. Recoil: The rifle's powerful cartridge can result in significant recoil, which may be uncomfortable for some shooters, especially with prolonged firing.
3. Outdated design: As a bolt-action rifle, the M91/30 lacks the rapid-fire capabilities of modern semi-automatic or automatic rifles, making it less suitable for modern combat scenarios.
4. Limited magazine capacity: The internal magazine of the M91/30 holds only five rounds, which can be a disadvantage in situations requiring a higher rate of fire.
5. Sights: While the M91/30's iron sights are effective for many purposes, they may not be as user-friendly as modern optics for precise long-range shooting.
6. Ammunition availability: While the 7.62x54mmR cartridge is still produced, it may not be as readily available as more modern ammunition types.

Muzzle

Every Mosin-Nagant M91/30's muzzle plays a crucial part in the overall performance of this iconic rifle, significantly influencing the trajectory of the 7.62x54R cartridge.  The muzzle's design is crucial to maintaining accuracy and power. It's engineered to withstand the explosive force that propels the bullet, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

The muzzle of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a simple yet functional component that adds to the rifle's historical and iconic appearance. 

Sights

The iron sights of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 are designed for long-range accuracy. While not as advanced as modern optics, these sights are durable and effective.

The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 features robust iron sights, which are known for their durability and effectiveness in various conditions.

The front sight is a blade or windage driftable post sight protected by a front sight hood, which shields it from damage, debris, and harsh conditions. The rear sight is an adjustable tangent-type sight, graduated for different distances. Some variants of the M91/30 may have simplified rear sights.

The sight picture provided by the M91/30's iron sights is clear and functional, allowing for precise aiming. The combination of the front post and rear notch makes target acquisition straightforward.

Barrel

The long barrel of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a prominent and vital component of this historic firearm. It's approximately 28.7 inches (73 cm) in length. This length contributes to the rifle's impressive long-range accuracy and power. The length of the barrel, combined with the rifle's iron sights, allows for accurate shooting at extended ranges, making the M91/30 suitable for marksmanship and precision shooting.

A 7.62x54mmR cartridge, a powerful round known for its ballistics and effectiveness at longer distances, can be chambered in the barrel.

The barrel is constructed from high-quality steel, which contributes to the rifle's durability and ability to withstand the rigors of military service in various environments.

The barrel is accessible for cleaning and maintenance, which is essential to ensure the rifle's reliability and accuracy over time.

Stock

The stock of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a fundamental component of this rifle. While it may lack the ergonomic features of modern rifle stocks, it is durable and functional and contributes to the rifle's iconic status.

The stock is typically made of wood, including various hardwoods like birch or walnut, coated with a lacquer finish. The wood used in Mosin-Nagant stocks is known for its durability and resistance to harsh conditions. It features a classic military design with a semi-pistol grip and a straight comb. This design is typical of rifles from the early 20th century.

The length of pull is suitable for most shooters, providing a comfortable and natural shooting position. It also includes a sling swivel for carrying the rifle, which is important for infantry use. Additionally, there is typically a slot for a cleaning rod.

The stock accommodates the attachment of the bayonet, which is a characteristic feature of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30. The bayonet can be folded or fixed, depending on the variant.

While the stock design is functional, it may not offer the same ergonomic features as modern rifle stocks. Some shooters find the straight comb less comfortable than more modern designs.

Cartouches

The cartouches on the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, often referred to as markings or stamps, provide important information about the rifle's history, production, and origin. They're usually stamped into the stock, receiver, and various metal components of the rifle, including the barrel bands.

Cartouches can include serial numbers, factory marks, arsenal stamps, and proof marks. These markings identify the rifle's manufacturer, date of production, and sometimes the specific arsenal where it was refurbished or stored.

For collectors and enthusiasts, cartouches are essential for determining the rifle's provenance and historical value. Rifles with rare or unusual cartouches may be particularly sought after.

For collectors, preserving original cartouches and markings is important for maintaining the historical integrity and value of the rifle. Overzealous refinishing or stock modifications can potentially diminish the value of a collectible Mosin-Nagant.

Identifying and documenting cartouches is an essential aspect of Mosin-Nagant rifle research. This information helps enthusiasts and historians trace the rifle's history and understand its place in military service.

Magazine

Mosin-Nagant M91/30's feature a permanently attached box magazine with a catch for unloading, making its operation straightforward and efficient. This integral magazine holds five rounds and is loaded manually either individually or with a clip.

Loading the magazine involves manually placing individual cartridges into the action through the open top of the receiver. After firing a round, the bolt is manually operated to eject the spent cartridge case and chamber the next round from the magazine.

In some cases, Mosin-Nagant rifles were issued with stripper clips, which could be used to quickly load multiple rounds into the internal magazine. The clips were inserted into the open action, and the rounds were pushed into the magazine.

The internal magazine of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a utilitarian but effective design that was common among bolt-action rifles of its time. It does not offer the high-capacity convenience of modern detachable box magazines.

Trigger

The trigger of the M91/30 is a simple, two-stage, military-style trigger designed for reliability and durability. The trigger has a two-stage design, meaning there is some take-up or initial slack before reaching a distinct point where additional pressure is required to fire the rifle. This design allows for some trigger control and helps prevent accidental discharges.

The trigger pull weight of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 can vary among individual rifles. It typically falls within the range of 4 to 6 pounds (1.8 to 2.7 kilograms).

The M91/30 features a manual safety located on the rear of the bolt. When engaged, the safety prevents the trigger from being pulled, enhancing the rifle's safety during handling and transport.

Shooting the Mosin-Nagant

Shooting the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 can be a unique and historically significant experience. Here's a brief guide on how to shoot the Mosin-Nagant M91/30:

1. Safety First

• Always treat firearms with the utmost respect for safety. Ensure that the rifle is unloaded when handling it and only load it at the shooting range or in a safe shooting environment.

2. Ammunition

• Use appropriate 7.62x54mmR ammunition that is safe and suitable for your rifle. Inspect each round for signs of damage or corrosion before loading.

3. Loading

• Open the bolt by lifting the bolt handle and pulling it rearward.
• Insert a cartridge into the chamber from the top of the action.
• Push the bolt forward and down to chamber the round. Ensure the bolt is fully closed and locked.

4. Aiming and sighting

• The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 typically features iron sights. Use the rear tangent sight and front post or blade sight to aim at your target.
• Align the sights with your target and focus on the front sight post for accuracy.

5. Trigger control

• Apply steady and controlled pressure to the trigger. The Mosin-Nagant has a two-stage trigger, so you'll feel some take-up before a distinct break.

6. Recoil Management

• Be prepared for significant recoil when firing the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, especially if you're not accustomed to shooting high-powered rifles. Maintain a firm but comfortable grip on the stock and shoulder the rifle properly.

7. Bolt Operation

• After firing, operate the bolt to extract the spent cartridge case and chamber the next round.
• Lift the bolt handle, pull it rearward to extract, and then push it forward and down to chamber a new round.

8. Safety

• Always engage the rifle's safety when it's not in use. The safety is typically located at the rear of the bolt and should prevent the trigger from being pulled when engaged.

Field Strip

Field stripping the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a relatively simple process that allows you to disassemble the rifle for cleaning and maintenance. 

1. Ensure safety.

• Always treat the firearm as if it is loaded, and ensure it is unloaded before proceeding. Remove any ammunition from the rifle.

2. Remove the bolt.

• Open the bolt by lifting the bolt handle and pulling it rearward.
• While holding the trigger down, continue to pull the bolt rearward and lift it out of the receiver. The bolt should come out easily.

4. Remove the magazine floorplate.

• Flip the rifle upside down.
• Locate the small latch on the bottom of the magazine floorplate.
• Use a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to press the latch inward while gently sliding the floorplate forward. This will release the floorplate.

5. Remove the trigger assembly.

• After removing the magazine floorplate, you can slide the trigger assembly out of the stock. This will give you access to the rifle's action and internal components.

6. Clean and maintain.

• With the bolt, trigger assembly, and magazine floorplate removed, you can now clean and maintain the rifle's various parts as needed. Pay attention to the bore, chamber, and any other areas that may require cleaning.

7. Reassemble.

• To reassemble the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, simply reverse the steps.
• Start by sliding the trigger assembly back into the stock.
• Attach the magazine floorplate by sliding it into place until it clicks and locks.
• Reinsert the bolt by aligning it with the receiver and pushing it down until it locks in place.

8. Function check.

• After reassembly, perform a function check to ensure that the rifle operates safely and correctly. Check the safety, bolt operation, and trigger function.

9. Test fire.

• If desired, you can take the rifle to a shooting range and test fire it to ensure that it functions correctly after reassembly.

History

The history of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is a tale steeped in technical innovation, production challenges, and even legal disputes. Over time, the weapon underwent numerous refinements, sparking a significant legal dispute involving the designer, Nagant.

Let's check out a detailed history of the Mosin Nagant rifle.

Initial Design and Tests

The rifle is named after its two main designers. Imperial Russian Army Captain Sergei Ivanovich Mosin and Belgian Designer Léon Nagant submitted designs for the iconic rifle. It was developed in the late 19th century and first adopted by the Russian Empire in 1891, hence the designation M91.

Sergei and Léon initially designed the Mosin-Nagant rifle in the late 19th century, subjecting it to rigorous tests to ensure its reliability and efficiency in combat scenarios. They knew it had to withstand extreme conditions, so they tested it in the harshest of climates. 

Mosin's design for the rifle's bolt action and magazine won the day, but Nagant's contribution to the rifle's feeding system was crucial. Their collaboration resulted in a robust, reliable firearm that became a symbol of Russian military might.

The Mosin Nagant rifle faced multiple revisions based on these tests, with each adaptation improving its performance. 

Initial Production

In 1891, Russia's military leaders kicked off the initial production of the Mosin-Nagant rifle, aiming to modernize their arsenal. The initial production of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 marked the beginning of a long and storied service history for this rifle. It remained the standard-issue rifle for Soviet forces during World War II and beyond, and its production continued in various factories not only in the Soviet Union but also in other countries that adopted or produced the rifle under license.

The development of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 began in the late 19th century when the Russian Empire recognized the need for a new standard-issue rifle. Captain Sergei Ivanovich Mosin and Léon Nagant both submitted rifle designs for consideration.

The Russian military officially adopted the design as its new infantry rifle. This adoption led to the designation "M1891" for the rifle. The design was selected over competing designs, including one by Léon.

Initial production of these Russian rifles began in 1891. The first M91 rifles were produced at the Tula Arms Plant (Tulsky Oruzheiny Zavod) and the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant (Izhevskiy Mekhanicheskiy Zavod), both of which became well-known for their firearm production.

As the Russian military transitioned to the new rifle, production facilities were expanded to meet the demand. The factories continued to produce M91 rifles in significant quantities, supplying the Russian Imperial Army.

Refinement

Despite its initial success, the Mosin-Nagant M91 required further refinement. The refinement details that led to the development of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 from its predecessor, the Mosin-Nagant M1891 (often simply referred to as the Mosin-Nagant M91), primarily involved modifications and improvements made to the original design. These refinements were aimed at enhancing the rifle's performance, ease of use, and durability. 

1. Barrel length: The most significant change was the increase in barrel length from the original M1891's approximately 31.5 inches (80 cm) to approximately 28.7 inches (73 cm) for the M91/30. This change was made to improve accuracy and overall balance while maintaining the rifle's effectiveness.
2. Front sight hood: The M91/30 introduced a distinctive front sight hood, which helped protect the front sight post from damage and dirt, improving accuracy and sight picture.
3. Simplified rear sight: The rear sight on the M91/30 was simplified and made more robust, with fewer moving parts. This made it easier to manufacture and maintain.
4. Bayonet design: The rifle is designed to accept a bayonet. The bayonet for the M91/30 was also modified, replacing the original cruciform bayonet with a spike-shaped bayonet. This bayonet became iconic and is often associated with the rifle.
5. Hexagonal receiver: Early versions of the M1891 had a hexagonal receiver, but the M91/30 transitioned to a round receiver. The round receiver was simpler and less expensive to manufacture.
6. Improved bolt design: The bolt handle and bolt design were further refined to enhance reliability and smoothness of operation. This improvement made it easier for soldiers to operate the rifle under combat conditions.
7. Tangent rear sight: Some M91/30 rifles featured a tangent-type rear sight, which allowed for more precise elevation adjustments, especially for long-range shooting.
8. Reinforced stock: The buttstock of the M91/30 was reinforced and redesigned to increase durability and improve handling characteristics.
9. Improved barrel bands: The barrel bands and attachment methods were improved, making them more secure and durable.
10. Simplified stock features: Some of the finer stock features, such as finger grooves, were eliminated or simplified to streamline production and reduce costs.
11. Introduction of sniper versions: The M91/30 platform also gave rise to sniper rifle variants, which included optics and other refinements for precision shooting. These sniper rifles played a crucial role in Soviet sniping during World War II.

By the 1930s, it had evolved into the M91/30, a design that remained largely unchanged for the remainder of its service life.

Nagant's Legal Dispute

'Why did Nagant find himself entangled in a legal dispute, and what were the repercussions for the development of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30?' This question takes us back to the late 19th century.

Léon Nagant, one of the designers of the Mosin-Nagant rifle, was involved in a legal dispute related to his rifle design. The dispute revolved around patent rights and compensation for his contributions to the rifle's development. Nagant believed that he deserved more credit and compensation for his role in the rifle's design, particularly because he had made significant contributions to the design.

He also complained that he had not received appropriate recognition or compensation for his work. He believed that his contributions were downplayed in favor of Mosin's role.

In response to the perceived lack of recognition and compensation, Léon Nagant took legal action to assert his rights. He sought legal redress including financial compensation and recognition for his contributions to the design of the rifle.

 Eventually, the legal dispute between Léon Nagant and the Russian government and military authorities was eventually resolved. The exact terms of the resolution and any compensation received by Nagant are not widely documented. However, it is known that the rifle continued to bear the names of both designers, Mosin and Nagant, in various markings and inscriptions.

Russo-Japanese War

During the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), the Mosin-Nagant M1891 rifle played a significant role as the standard-issue rifle for Russian infantry. It was the primary infantry rifle used by Russian forces during the Russo-Japanese War. It was chambered for the 7.62x54mmR cartridge and featured a bolt-action mechanism with a five-round internal magazine. More than 100,000 M91s saw first combat use during this war.

By the time of the Russo-Japanese War, the M1891 design was somewhat outdated compared to more modern rifles used by the Japanese forces such as the Arisaka Type 30. The Russian rifle's long barrel and cumbersome length made it less ideal for close-quarters combat.

Russian infantry armed with the Mosin-Nagant M1891 faced challenges in the conflict. The Japanese forces, who were often armed with more compact and maneuverable rifles had the advantage in terms of mobility and close combat.

Despite its shortcomings in close combat, the Mosin-Nagant M1891's long-range accuracy and power were still assets for the Russian forces. The rifle was effective at longer distances, which allowed Russian troops to engage Japanese forces at extended ranges.

During the war, there were some supply issues and logistical challenges for the Russian military. However, the Mosin-Nagant M1891 was relatively robust and reliable, which helped maintain its effectiveness on the battlefield.

The Russo-Japanese War served as a test of the Mosin-Nagant M1891's performance in combat. While it highlighted some of the rifle's limitations, it also demonstrated its durability and effectiveness in the hands of skilled marksmen.

The lessons learned from the Russo-Japanese War, including the need for more compact rifles for infantry use, contributed to the eventual development of variants like the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, which featured refinements to address some of the earlier model's shortcomings.

World War I

The Mosin-Nagant M1891 rifle, along with its later variant the Mosin-Nagant M91/30, played a significant role in World War I, particularly in the hands of Russian and other allied forces. It was the standard-issue rifle for Russian infantry during World War I. The later variant, the M91/30, also saw extensive use. Russia, being one of the major combatants in the war, deployed large numbers of Mosin-Nagant rifles to its troops on the Eastern Front and other theaters of the conflict.

The Mosin-Nagant rifles were known for their accuracy and power at longer ranges. This capability was valuable in the trench warfare and open-field battles of World War I.

Russian infantry also utilized bayonet charges. The Mosin-Nagant's bayonet, whether the original cruciform or the spike bayonet of the M91/30, played a role in close combat situations.

During the war, some specialized versions of the Mosin-Nagant were developed, including sniper variants equipped with scopes. These sniper rifles were used for precision shooting.

In addition to Russian forces, various other allied nations used the Mosin-Nagant rifles during World War I. These included countries like France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, which provided assistance to the Russian Empire.

The rifle's accuracy, reliability, and long-range capabilities made it an effective firearm in the hands of soldiers facing the challenges of World War I's battlefield conditions.

Civil War and Wars with Finland

In both the Russian Civil War and the Winter War with Finland, the Mosin-Nagant rifles were prominent firearms on the battlefield. Their ruggedness, reliability, and firepower made them suitable for the challenging conditions of these conflicts. 

Russian Civil War (1917-1923)

The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 was the standard-issue rifle for the Red Army during the Russian Civil War, which was fought between the Bolshevik Red Army and various White Army factions. It was a long and brutal conflict with numerous battles and fronts. The Mosin-Nagant rifles were used extensively by both sides, making them ubiquitous on the battlefield.

The Mosin-Nagant M91/30's firepower and reliability were valuable in the chaotic and often harsh conditions of the civil war. Its long-range accuracy was also an asset in the vast Russian landscape.

Bayonet charges were common tactics in the Russian Civil War, and the Mosin-Nagant's bayonet played a role in close combat.

Throughout the conflict, various versions and adaptations of the Mosin-Nagant were used, including sniper rifles with scopes for precision shooting.

Winter War with Finland (1939-1940)

During the Winter War, the Soviet Union, armed with Mosin-Nagant rifles, invaded Finland, which led to a protracted and bitter conflict.

The war took place in harsh winter conditions, with temperatures often dropping to extreme lows. The Mosin-Nagant rifles demonstrated their durability in these adverse environments.

The Finnish forces, armed with a variety of rifles, including Mosin-Nagants captured from Soviet troops, put up a fierce resistance against the invading Soviet forces.

Both sides utilized sniper rifles, including Mosin-Nagant sniper variants, in an attempt to gain an advantage in the often heavily forested and snow-covered terrain.

The conflict ended with the signing of the Treaty of Moscow in March 1940, resulting in territorial changes and the cessation of hostilities.

World War II

During World War II, the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 served as a reliable firearm and an iconic symbol of the Soviet Union's resistance against the Axis powers.
Used by millions of Red Army soldiers, it played a key role in pivotal battles on the Eastern Front. Its durability, firepower, and adaptability made it a reliable workhorse for the Soviet Red Army during World War II.

The rifle's reputation for ruggedness and reliability made it well-suited for the harsh conditions of the Eastern Front, which included extreme cold, mud, and other challenging environments.

The Mosin-Nagant's long barrel and accuracy at longer ranges made it effective in open-field battles and defensive positions, allowing Soviet infantry to engage German and Axis forces from a distance.

Although not as frequently used as in the previous wars, bayonet charges were still employed as a combat tactic during World War II, and the Mosin-Nagant's bayonet was used in close combat situations.

Russian Mosin Nagant rifles were adapted for sniper use, with scoped variants being used by Soviet snipers to great effect. Snipers armed with Mosin-Nagant sniper rifles scored numerous kills against enemy personnel.

Beyond standard infantry use, Mosin-Nagant rifles were also used by Soviet partisan groups operating behind enemy lines. These rifles allowed partisans to engage German and Axis forces in guerrilla warfare.

Increased Worldwide Use

After World War II, the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifle saw increased worldwide use. Because it was produced in the millions, there was a huge surplus of the rifles, which found use in both military and civilian roles.

Military and Surplus Use

1. Soviet Bloc and Satellite States: The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 remained in service with the armed forces of various Soviet Bloc countries and satellite states in Eastern Europe throughout the Cold War.
2. Warsaw Pact: The rifle was a standard-issue infantry firearm in countries that were part of the Warsaw Pact such as East Germany, Poland, Hungary, and others. It was used for training, reserve forces, and ceremonial purposes.
3. Surplus Market: After the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, surplus Mosin-Nagant rifles flooded the international firearms market. These rifles were sold or distributed to various countries and became popular collector's items.

Civilian and Hobbyist Roles

1. Collector's Item: The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 gained popularity among firearms collectors and enthusiasts worldwide due to its historical significance, unique features, and affordability. Collectors sought out various Mosin-Nagant variants, including sniper rifles and exotically marked examples.
2. Sport Shooting: Many Mosin-Nagant owners used their rifles for sport shooting, including target shooting and long-range competitions. The rifle's inherent accuracy and availability of surplus ammunition made it a suitable choice for these activities.
3. Hunting: Some individuals used the Mosin-Nagant for hunting, particularly in regions where it was legal and where ammunition in the 7.62x54mmR cartridge was readily available. Its power and long-range accuracy made it effective for hunting certain game.
4. DIY and Customization: Enthusiasts often engaged in DIY projects and customized their Mosin-Nagant rifles, modifying stocks, adding optics, and improving triggers. These modifications allowed for a more personalized and tailored shooting experience.
5. Historical Reenactments: The Mosin-Nagant was used in historical reenactments and living history events to recreate scenes from World War II and other conflicts.
6. Movies and Media: The Mosin-Nagant rifle continued to be featured in movies, television series, and video games, further contributing to its iconic status and recognition in popular culture.
7. Exported Surplus: Surplus Mosin-Nagant rifles were exported to various countries where they found their way into the hands of civilian gun owners, adding to the global presence of the firearm.
8. Firearms Training: Some shooting schools and firearms training facilities used Mosin-Nagant rifles for training purposes, teaching marksmanship and firearm safety to new shooters.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifle was not a primary or modern-issue firearm used by the Russian military during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The conflict involved modern firearms and equipment used by both Russian and Ukrainian forces. The Mosin-Nagant rifles, being a relic of the past, were not considered standard-issue or practical for contemporary military operations.

Instead, modern assault rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles, and other advanced firearms were used by both sides during the conflict.

Note that the conflict in Ukraine is a complex and ongoing situation, and the types of weapons used by various parties may evolve over time.

Technical Details

Both an iconic symbol of Russian military history and a popular firearm among collectors worldwide, the Mosin-Nagant's reputation is one that's been built over a century of service and use. This bolt-action rifle, with its distinctive straight handle, hasn't changed much since its inception, a testament to its robust design.

Caliber: 7.62x54mmR

Action: Bolt-action

Barrel Length: Approximately 28.7 inches (73 cm)

Overall Length: Approximately 48.5 inches (123 cm)

Weight: Approximately 8.8 pounds (4 kg)

Capacity: 5 rounds (internal magazine)

Sights

• Front: Blade or post sight, often protected by a front sight hood.
• Rear: Adjustable tangent rear sight, graduated for various distances. Some variants featured a simplified rear sight.

Stock

• Typically made of wood (various hardwoods) with a semi-pistol grip design.
• May include a sling swivel for carrying and a slot for a cleaning rod.

Bayonet

• Early versions featured a cruciform-shaped bayonet.
• Many M91/30 rifles were equipped with a spike-shaped bayonet.

Muzzle Velocity: Approximately 2,800 feet per second (853 meters per second) depending on the ammunition used.

Effective Range: Generally considered effective up to 500 meters or more, with some skilled marksmen achieving accuracy at even longer distances.

Operating Mechanism

• Bolt-action: The user manually operates the bolt to chamber a round, extract the spent cartridge case, and cock the rifle for the next shot.
• The bolt features a rotating bolt head with two locking lugs.

Ammunition: The rifle chambered the 7.62x54mmR cartridge, known for its power and effective range.

Variants

In the course of its long history, the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 has evolved into several distinct types, each with its own unique set of features and uses. Being a widely produced and used rifle, had various factory and arsenal-specific variants and modifications over the years. 

1. Sniper Rifles: These variants were equipped with telescopic scopes for precision shooting. Sniper rifles often had heavier barrels for increased accuracy. The PU and PE scopes were commonly used on Mosin-Nagant sniper rifles.
2. Carbines: Shorter versions of the M91/30, known as carbines, were produced for use by cavalry and other troops requiring a more compact firearm. One example is the M38, which had a shorter barrel and overall length compared to the M91/30.
3. Ex-Dragoon Rifles: Some M91/30 rifles were converted from earlier Dragoon rifles (such as the M91 Dragoon) by modifying the stock and other components to fit the M91/30 specifications.
4. Finnish Variants: Finland, which acquired a significant number of Mosin-Nagant rifles, developed its own variants, such as the M27 and M28, which featured changes to the sights and stocks for Finnish military preferences.
5. Post-War Refurbishments: Many Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifles underwent refurbishment and reconditioning processes in various countries after World War II. These refurbishments often included rebluing, restocking, and rechambering to ensure the rifles' continued serviceability.
6. PU Sniper Rifles: The most famous Mosin-Nagant sniper variant is the PU sniper rifle, which was equipped with a PU scope. These rifles were used by Soviet snipers during World War II and are highly sought after by collectors.
7. Other Sniper Variants: Besides the PU sniper, there were other sniper variants with different scope mounts and optics, such as the PEM sniper rifle.
8. Drift Adjustment Rifles: Some rifles had adjustable front sights for windage, making it easier to zero in on the target. These were used in various conflicts and are often referred to as "drift adjustment" rifles.
9. Tula and Izhevsk Arsenal Rifles: The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifles were produced in several arsenals, with Tula and Izhevsk being the most prominent. Rifles from these arsenals may have subtle differences in markings and production methods.
10. M44 Carbine: The M44 was a carbine variant of the Mosin-Nagant, featuring a permanently attached folding bayonet and a shorter barrel. It was designed for ease of handling in close quarters.
11. Chinese Variants: China produced its versions of the Mosin-Nagant rifles, including the Type 53, which was a Chinese copy of the M44 carbine.
12. Various Stock Types: There were different stock types and designs used over the years, including laminate and hardwood stocks. Some rifles featured special finishes or markings for ceremonial or commemorative purposes.

These are just a few examples of the many variants and adaptations of the Mosin-Nagant M91/30 rifle. 

Conclusion

The Mosin-Nagant M91/30 is more than just a rifle; it's a piece of history. With its robust construction, unique caliber, and innovative design, it's stood the test of time on countless battlefields.

Whether you're a history buff or a firearm enthusiast, understanding the Mosin-Nagant and its impact is a fascinating journey. This guide has hopefully deepened your appreciation for this iconic weapon, from its Russian roots to its distinctive shooting experience.