7.62x54R - ep 7 - Finnish M39 first shots

Published on June 18, 2017
Duration: 26:16

This video details the process of preparing and firing a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant rifle. The presenter begins by cleaning a previously neglected rifle, then proceeds to handload ammunition for it. Key steps include slugging the barrel to determine its precise diameter, selecting appropriate bullets and powder charges, and carefully seating the bullets to the correct overall length. The video concludes with initial range testing, demonstrating the rifle's accuracy and reliability with the handloaded ammunition.

Quick Summary

To determine the correct bullet size for a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant, slug the barrel with lead round balls. Hammer 32 caliber black powder round balls through the bore and measure the deformed balls with calipers to find the groove diameter. For a .310 bore, a .311 bullet is generally recommended for optimal accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant
  2. 00:52Rifle Condition & Cleanup
  3. 01:31Rifle Details: 1943 Sako, Wartime Stock
  4. 03:24Preparing to Load: Slug the Bore
  5. 04:31Measuring Bore Diameter
  6. 06:51Selecting Components: Bullet, Powder, Primer
  7. 08:13Resizing Die & Expander Check
  8. 09:39Brass Preparation: Norma Brass
  9. 10:10Chamber Check: Overall Length
  10. 11:51Loading Process: Sizing & Deburring
  11. 13:19Priming Cases
  12. 13:53Charging Cases with Powder
  13. 14:47Bullet Seating Die Setup
  14. 15:39Seating Bullets to OAL
  15. 17:04First Shots: 50 Yards
  16. 18:16Brass Inspection After Firing
  17. 19:27Shooting at 100 Yards
  18. 21:29100 Yard Target Review
  19. 22:50Shooting at 90 Yards Steel Plate
  20. 23:44Back to 50 Yard Plates
  21. 25:28Final Brass Inspection & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine the correct bullet size for a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant?

To determine the correct bullet size for a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant, you should slug the barrel using lead round balls. Hammering 32 caliber black powder round balls through the bore and then measuring the diameter of the deformed balls with calipers will reveal the barrel's groove diameter. For a .310 bore, a .311 bullet is typically recommended.

What is a recommended handload for the 7.62x54R Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant?

A recommended handload for the 7.62x54R Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant includes a 174-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet (.311 diameter), 42.5 grains of Reloader 15 powder, and Winchester large rifle primers, with an overall cartridge length of 2.9 inches. This load is considered a light load, previously tested for accuracy.

What are the typical characteristics of a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant's stock?

Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant stocks, especially wartime ones, often have a dull matte finish and may appear dry. They can also show signs of wear and may have had little to no protective finish applied, requiring oiling to restore moisture and appearance.

What kind of accuracy can be expected from a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant with handloaded ammunition?

With proper handloading and a well-cleaned barrel, a Finnish M39 Mosin-Nagant can achieve good accuracy. Initial tests showed a group of approximately 4 inches at 100 yards, which is considered good for a first outing with handloads and a rifle that was initially in poor condition.

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