In 1891, the Russian Empire adopted a bolt-action rifle chambered in 7.62x54R, and designated it Model 1891. In 1930, the sights, barrel bands, and receivers were altered and the rifle was given a new designation: the 1891/30, or 91/30 for 
short. Aside from altering the rifles that were being newly produced, the government also began updating rifles already in existence. Rifles were made in Russia, Finland, France, and even by Remington at one point! The 91/30 was the workhorse of the Russian armed forces for decades and saw action in both World Wars and was witness to the fall of the Russian Empire and its transition to the Soviet Union.
Because these weapons were so widely produced for more than half a century, the 91/30 provides a unique opportunity to own a piece of history and a real powerhouse for relatively little money (try finding a usable US M1 Garand for <$80!). The size of the 54R cartridge falls squarely between the .30-06 (7.62x63mm) and the .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm) so you know you’re shooting a rifle! Some people even load their 
91/30 up with soft point ammo for deer season. With the bayonet, sling, and ammo pouch (for starters), you can really get an authentic feel for what it must have been like for a Russian soldier more than sixty-five years ago.
Whether it’s a round receiver or a hex, made by Izhevsk or Tula, there are so many little variations that you’re almost guaranteed to get a different rifle each time.
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