Finnish Capture Russian Izhevsk SVT-40 Semi-Auto Rifle 7.62x54r WWII C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,391.00
LSB#: WY240913TF030
Make: Izhevsk Mechanical Plant, Russia
Model: SVT-40
Serial Number: OL3886
Year of Manufacture: 1940
Caliber: 7.62x54r
Action Type: Semi-Auto, Short stroke Tilting Bolt
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with the Izhevesk arrow and “40”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “OL3886”. All serialized parts are non-matching to the receiver. There are various arsenal refurb and small proofs throughout. There is a Finnish capture mark on the receiver.
Barrel Length: 24” before muzzle brake, 26.75” after muzzle brake
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post. The rear sight is a “U” notched sliding sight escalator marked from “1-15”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece set with a metal heat shield, vented top handguard, cleaning rod, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are scratches, scuffs, pressure dents, and small chips throughout the wood. There are no cracks. The stock has spots of dark discoloration throughout. The rear sling loop is missing. Overall, the stock is in Fair to Good Condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: One 10rd Magazine in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Rust Blued
Finish Originality: Original to various refurbishments.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is moderately worn. There is moderate erosion and spots of pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 4/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its metal finish. There is heavy thinning, scratches, and nicks throughout the finish. The leading edges are worn. There are light spots of rust and patina on the bolt. The bolt was left in the white from the factory. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Total of 1 magazine.
Our Assessment: The SVT-40 was one of the russian breadwinners of World War II. With over a million made, it was the Soviet Union’s first major foray into repeating rifle armaments after the long and storied career of the mosin line of rifles, and would serve as an extra level of firepower for many soviet rifleman squads. This particular rifle was made at the Tula Arsenal in 1941, while the Soviet Union was still reeling from Operation Barbarossa. Working round the clock under the slogan “Everything for the front, Everything For Victory”, the Tula plant would produce this rifle, amongst others, before it was evacuated eastward to avoid the advance of the German 2nd Panzer Division. The SVT-40 would equip Soviet troops throughout World War II before being superseded by newer rifles like the SKS and AK-47. It would also serve in Finnish hands, and was dispersed in limited numbers to other Warsaw Pact countries. The other major conflict to see usage of the SVT-40 was the Korean War, where SVTs were sent to help equip the North Korean army. Grab yourself a legendary piece of World War II memorabilia today and get bidding! -R.E.
