Deer Hunting with a Mosin 38

[regal]

Is this a suitable deer rifle? I know it has the power but accuracy is suspect compared to a Stevens .308. They are cheaper and the ammo is much much cheaper. Opinions?

[Karys]

I hunt deer with my M44 and I have a friend that took at least one deer with his. I haven't gotten one with mine yet.

We keep everything stock and hunt with open sights. I really only use mine when the weather is nasty and I'm worried about a scope fogging up.

The longest shot we could take where we hunt is about 75 yards. Your M38 has plenty of accuracy at that range even with open sights.

I forget what bullet weight I'm using but I mostly use either Norma or Wolf jacketed soft points for ammo.

[Dredly]

it'll work, make sure you practice with non-FMJ ammo!

[Eagles6]

Go for it. More than adequate. Would not feel unarmed with that rifle.

[hornady]

More years than I like to think about I started hunting with a 303 British Mil surplus rifle, the biggest problem with the old military rifles, are the sights, if you can reload for it that would be your best bet, with these sights you need lots of practice, it will definitely drop a deer if you do your part, be careful about the ammo you use, most mil-surplus ammo is not legal for hunting.

[ConewagoCZ]

I hunt with an M38 using a 4X LER scope in a "scout" style mount. I find the S&B 180g soft points to be more accurate in mine than most of the surplus FMJ. I don't take shots much over 100 yards with it though. As with any rifle, get out and practice with it before the season starts and know your limitations. It should be fine.

If you haven't done it, a little polishing on the trigger parts helps for a smoother pull but be careful with the sear contact surfaces, you don't want to make it unsafe.

If you have the strength in your forearms, you can use the safety effectively, but some folks just keep the chamber empty until ready to shoot.

Have fun and be safe.

[knight0334]

Is this a suitable deer rifle? I know it has the power but accuracy is suspect compared to a Stevens .308. They are cheaper and the ammo is much much cheaper. Opinions?

You find out that the hunting ammo isn't any cheaper. It is illegal to use FMJ/ball(military surplus) ammo for hunting.

[Nate7667]

Well you can get a box of 20 203gr soft point Brown Bear for about $10-13.
Thats a good bit cheaper than standard .308

Is it as accurate, doubt it. But dont try any shots at distances that you didnt practice.

[Chunky Monkey]

Well you can get a box of 20 203gr soft point Brown Bear for about $10-13.
Thats a good bit cheaper than standard .308

Is it as accurate, doubt it. But dont try any shots at distances that you didnt practice.

If it is accurate, you use the proper ammo and can make a lethal shot then go for it!

Me I may try my 1903A3 but not the M44. I have to make sure the bayonet is out cause it shoots left without it extended.

[27hand]

My first deer rifle was a Spanish 1893 Oveido mauser in 7X57. I bought it for $24 at Springfield Sporters on 422. It's dated 1924.

Accuracy was not good but could hit at 50 yds.

My BIL shot a deer with it at about 50yds.

I would think your rifle could put down any deer out to a range you can consistantly hit.

good luck

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