As I have an historical interest, (and I don't intend on staying in california longer than I have too) I've been looking into buying either a Springfield 1903, a 1917 Enfield, or a Lee-Enfield (SMLE).
Internet doesn't seem to have much on availability, so for you firearm experts, what's your thoughts?
The 03 is the best Match Grade Rifle of the bunch but, The Short Magazine Lee Enfield would take my vote if I could only have one. Both calibers 30.06 and 303 British dont show on any evil scary ammunition lists so supply should be plentiful (massive run on .223 right now!)
I love the vintage iron myself
It took about 17 years to really get them, it is the main battle rifle for every WW2 Combatant.
The prerequisite was to be un-mutilated, all headstamps and markings complete (Including German "Nazi" Waffenmat and Japanese Imperial Chrysanthemum). They all had to be built in 39-45.
The Top is my 44 Built Springfield M-1 Garand
Next is 1943 Mosin Nagant M44
Then 1943 IV Lee Enfield
Then 1941 Mauser 98K
And Finally 1944 Arisika Type 99