Tell me about the Swiss K31

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Tell me about the Swiss K31 (Page 1 of 2)

Posted: 10/8/2014 2:39:26 PM EDT

I think I want one. Can someone give me a quick hit list of things to look for? As well, where is the best place to find one? What should I expect to pay, and what are good ammo options?

Thanks!

Posted: 10/8/2014 2:57:54 PM EDT

[#1]

Quoted:
I think I want one. Can someone give me a quick hit list of things to look for? As well, where is the best place to find one? What should I expect to pay, and what are good ammo options?

Thanks!

View Quote

Imported Swiss GP11 ammo is very good and pretty affordable. The rifle has a chromium-nickel bore. Take good care of it and it should last a long time. Walnut stocks are desirable.

Something to look for: a tag with the name and address of the last Swiss soldier it was issued to under the buttstock. A lot of folks write to the soldier as a way of telling him where the rifle is, that it will be cared for, and asking questions about the soldier's service.

I'm sorry that I can't help you with current places to look and what to expect to pay these days. Prices have gone up since I bought mine.

Posted: 10/8/2014 2:59:58 PM EDT

[#2]

Great rifles, http://www.swissrifles.com/sr/faq/ This link has all the information you need and probably a lot you don't need.

In short, the Walnut stocked K31's are earlier manufacture than the Beech stock rifle, however if they were arsenal rebuild then that doesn't apply.

GP-11 is the best, meaning very accurate ammo, however it's berdan primed which makes it difficult to reload. Prvi Partizan ammo, makes a boxer primed cartridge so reloading with that is easier.

I'm not sure of prices these days, my Beech stock K31 was $250, that was about 5 years ago.

Posted: 10/8/2014 3:04:49 PM EDT

[#3]

SImpson Ltd. is probably your best bet for a K31 these days. And each rifle is sold individually, so you can pick out exactly what you want, and know ahead of time exactly what you'll get.

They have about 200 of them at this time, ranging from $250 to $1250, with the majority being $300-$350.

http://www.simpsonltd.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=k-31&search_in_description=1&page=1&sort=4d

Posted: 10/8/2014 3:07:04 PM EDT

[#4]

thanks for the quick info. anyone here done business with classic firearms online? they have them for 309

Posted: 10/8/2014 3:21:50 PM EDT

[#5]

Classic Firearms is good to go. However, I'd be sure to double-check with them to see if their K31s are from the recent batches of Century imports. If so, those have a huge and obnoxious billboard on the receiver, which quite frankly ruins the look of the rifle in my opinion.

Simpson's K31s are much more discreetly marked. Plus, as stated above, you get to pick out the exact rifle you want, instead of just getting a random one from the pile from Classic.

Posted: 10/8/2014 4:15:14 PM EDT

[#6]

If you keep your eyes out you can find an x grade type for about $200 that are excellent shooters

Posted: 10/8/2014 5:32:55 PM EDT

[#7]

If you shop carefully for the K31's predecessor, the 96/11, you can snag an antique w/ no paperwork.

Posted: 10/8/2014 8:18:41 PM EDT

[#8]

I'm new to C&R but not to shooting, nor reloading for more modern rifles and pistols. Let me throw you my .02

Swiss K31 - GET IT. Period. It is the BEST rifle I've ever owned, workmanship is absolutely over the top, out of the box iron sights 200 yards first round bang right on the 6 inch gong, round after round. amazing.

I got mine at samco, both an unissued beechwood and then a walnut (special select grade) , I am VERY happy with both. Samco

And while you don't have the rifle, this just happened to come out today, best price I've seen yet on k11 ammo in the few months I've had my k31, ammo is GREAT. CTD

Order 8 and they send you the black case I suppose, either way who cares the ammo is GTG! Heck I better go grab me a case.

Posted: 10/8/2014 9:33:32 PM EDT

[#9]

Question: When I got mine from Classic the front sight armorer's mark wasn't aligned. After a few taps with the brass punch to line the mark back up...did I make a mistake? Shooting it this weekend so I'll find out, but if so I can drift it back before sighting in

Posted: 10/8/2014 11:12:24 PM EDT

[#10]

Mine is far and away one of the most accurate rifles I own , with the GP-11 ammo

Posted: 10/9/2014 12:02:25 AM EDT

[#11]

You will be glad you got one if you did!

I would also recommend Simpsons Ltd. - as mentioned you can pick exactly the rifle you will be getting. Also keep your eyes open here on the EE and other boards. A few of my best Swiss rifles were found that way. As for ammo, as also mentioned GP-11 is great stuff!

Also don't rule out the long rifles (1911 or 96/11), they are outstanding shooters!

Posted: 10/9/2014 4:18:04 PM EDT

[#12]

HA...my 1958 Beech(last yr made, lowest production numbers) has a tiny PW imports under the barrel almost in to the wood. 100.bucks bought valuve today....400-500. They only thing I ever got in early on.

Posted: 10/11/2014 8:39:29 PM EDT

[#13]

I LOVE the Swiss straight pull stuff I have a 96/11 and my wife has a K31, both are amazing shooters and the quality makes more modern stuff look sad.

Posted: 10/11/2014 9:07:24 PM EDT

[#14]

Quoted:
I think I want one.

View Quote

If you're even considering one you may as well start budgeting enough for 2 or 3, because after shooting one you're gonna somehow end up with several of them...

Posted: 10/11/2014 9:34:41 PM EDT

[#15]

I really liked mine, a mid-50s beech, until I bought a 1918 vintage M1911 from AIM. I've taken a real shine to it. My 54 yr old eyes really like the longer sight radius.

I'm having fun in the local vintage military rifle matches with these two. The K31s tear sight has a 100 yr setting while the M1911s lowest is 300 yds. So I have to aim a bit low at our 100 yd reduced rang. Still I shoot it better.

Posted: 10/11/2014 10:02:00 PM EDT

[#16]

You guys are going to hate me: I bought a 1946 K31 about 4 years ago, and I still haven't shot it.

ETA: It came with two packs of ammo, so I didn't want to shoot it up until I had more, but still a poor excuse.

I bought it from a guy at work that was moving for $200.

Posted: 10/13/2014 6:17:25 PM EDT

[#17]

Quote History

Quoted:
You guys are going to hate me: I bought a 1946 K31 about 4 years ago, and I still haven't shot it.

ETA: It came with two packs of ammo, so I didn't want to shoot it up until I had more, but still a poor excuse.

I bought it from a guy at work that was moving for $200.

View Quote

SHOOT IT! SHOOT IT NOW!!!

I love my K31. Need to get more ammo. Only thing I don't like about it are the open sights.

Posted: 10/13/2014 7:14:09 PM EDT

[#18]

Still need to shoot my m1911 but Im a fan of both my k31s. Something about that ridiculous length I love...

Posted: 10/13/2014 8:23:44 PM EDT

[#19]

I have also been checking these out. They look cool. Been cruising gun broker and checking out gun shows. Havent seen any at the gun shows though

Posted: 10/13/2014 8:38:27 PM EDT

[#20]

Quote History

Quoted:
I have also been checking these out. They look cool. Been cruising gun broker and checking out gun shows. Havent seen any at the gun shows though

View Quote

Lol probably cause once you buy one you'll never sell it

Posted: 10/13/2014 9:37:48 PM EDT

[#21]

All your K31s are belong to me

here's a front sight adjustment tool I made from some stuff from the hardware store

Posted: 10/13/2014 11:42:33 PM EDT

[#22]

Contact team member Eclope.

The man knows his stuff on K 31s.

Posted: 10/14/2014 9:01:53 AM EDT

[#23]

Quote History

Quoted:
You guys are going to hate me: I bought a 1946 K31 about 4 years ago, and I still haven't shot it.

ETA: It came with two packs of ammo, so I didn't want to shoot it up until I had more, but still a poor excuse.

I bought it from a guy at work that was moving for $200.

View Quote

I'll take some of that hate off you.

I have 2 K31s and a 1911 Swiss LR, all of which I have owned AT LEAST 6 years, and have not shot any of them.

Probably outta rectify that sometime soon.

Posted: 10/14/2014 9:16:35 AM EDT

[#24]

I have one that was rechambered for 308 win. Every time I take it to the range The line forms to shoot it. It is my favor it rifle to shoot cast bullets out of.

Posted: 10/14/2014 10:55:54 PM EDT

[#25]

Quote History

Quoted:

I'll take some of that hate off you.

I have 2 K31s and a 1911 Swiss LR, all of which I have owned AT LEAST 6 years, and have not shot any of them.

Probably outta rectify that sometime soon.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
You guys are going to hate me: I bought a 1946 K31 about 4 years ago, and I still haven't shot it.

ETA: It came with two packs of ammo, so I didn't want to shoot it up until I had more, but still a poor excuse.

I bought it from a guy at work that was moving for $200.

I'll take some of that hate off you.

I have 2 K31s and a 1911 Swiss LR, all of which I have owned AT LEAST 6 years, and have not shot any of them.

Probably outta rectify that sometime soon.

PM me for shipping address, i'll shoot em for you and return them to you so you can just put them back in the safe :-) oh and please pics of the 1911 Swiss LR.

Posted: 10/14/2014 11:03:35 PM EDT

[#26]

You can't go wrong with the K11 karbine either.

Posted: 10/14/2014 11:06:21 PM EDT

[#27]

I picked up a k31 not long ago from AIM. Easily one of my favorite rifles.

Here is a real short clip of hitting a steel target at 500 yards with gp11:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE6XlQJIwoU&list=UUopC5z_f-m4J-jYF1TC0-jA

I have the clamp on scope mount and ordered a vortex viper 3-9 (should be here in a couple of days). Plan on taking it out to 1000 yards.

Posted: 10/14/2014 11:38:18 PM EDT

[#28]

Quote History

Quoted:
You can't go wrong with the K11 karbine either.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15217478807_4e4bbdd885_b.jpg

View Quote

Man...I need to start a thread about 'whats your favorite WWII MG' and see what you throw out there :-) is there anything you don't have? (envy)

Posted: 10/14/2014 11:47:55 PM EDT

[#29]

Quote History

Quoted:

Man...I need to start a thread about 'whats your favorite WWII MG' and see what you throw out there :-) is there anything you don't have? (envy)

View Quote View All Quotes

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
You can't go wrong with the K11 karbine either.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15217478807_4e4bbdd885_b.jpg

Man...I need to start a thread about 'whats your favorite WWII MG' and see what you throw out there :-) is there anything you don't have? (envy)

lol many actually.. some i don't own that come to mind:

k11 rifle, 96/11, gew 98, lebel, svt 40.. to name a few.

Posted: 10/15/2014 12:19:30 AM EDT

[#30]

Quote History

Quoted:

lol many actually.. some i don't own that come to mind:

k11 rifle, 96/11, gew 98, lebel, svt 40.. to name a few.

View Quote View All Quotes

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
You can't go wrong with the K11 karbine either.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2941/15217478807_4e4bbdd885_b.jpg

Man...I need to start a thread about 'whats your favorite WWII MG' and see what you throw out there :-) is there anything you don't have? (envy)

lol many actually.. some i don't own that come to mind:

k11 rifle, 96/11, gew 98, lebel, svt 40.. to name a few.

If I remember right you're the one with the Finnish M39 photos I drool over.

Back to the K31...I own a walnut and my brother owns a beech. They are both tack drivers and love the straight pull bolt design.

Posted: 10/15/2014 12:30:22 AM EDT

[#31]

Quote History

Quoted:

PM me for shipping address, i'll shoot em for you and return them to you so you can just put them back in the safe :-) oh and please pics of the 1911 Swiss LR.

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
You guys are going to hate me: I bought a 1946 K31 about 4 years ago, and I still haven't shot it.

ETA: It came with two packs of ammo, so I didn't want to shoot it up until I had more, but still a poor excuse.

I bought it from a guy at work that was moving for $200.

I'll take some of that hate off you.

I have 2 K31s and a 1911 Swiss LR, all of which I have owned AT LEAST 6 years, and have not shot any of them.

Probably outta rectify that sometime soon.

PM me for shipping address, i'll shoot em for you and return them to you so you can just put them back in the safe :-) oh and please pics of the 1911 Swiss LR.

All I have right now.

Posted: 10/16/2014 12:42:41 AM EDT

[#32]

Swiss rifles are addictive. Don't hesitate to grab a K-31

I still need a 96/11 to complete the set.

Posted: 10/16/2014 1:12:15 PM EDT

[#33]

Nice collection! That Vetterli is beautiful

Posted: 10/16/2014 9:53:58 PM EDT

[#34]

I LOVE my K31.
Bought a clamp on scope mount and haven't fired it since.

I need to go shooting.

Posted: 12/1/2014 12:42:02 AM EDT

[#35]

I agree on the addicting part, and on the most accurate gun I own part too. Oh yeah, I agree on the you should buy one, and shoot it part too.

Posted: 12/1/2014 1:23:52 AM EDT

[#36]

Very good looking rifles posted. Truly a work of fine craftsmanship.

Posted: 12/1/2014 8:30:21 PM EDT

[#37]

Quote History

Quoted:
All your K31s are belong to me

http://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/5205/2208.JPG

here's a front sight adjustment tool I made from some stuff from the hardware store

http://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/5205/2207.JPG

View Quote

What are the parts needed for your front sight adjustment tool?

I'd like to build one of those.

Posted: 12/1/2014 9:36:17 PM EDT

[#38]

Had my 1911 long rifle out for a range trip this weekend. That rifle is a pleasure to shoot. I got one of the taller front sight blades from the Swiss rifle forum guy, sadly its still not quite tall enough for 100 yard work.

GP-11 is great ammo. Also, PPU makes decent brass, and 168 grain HPBT's shoot well from these rifles.

Matt

Posted: 12/1/2014 10:42:53 PM EDT

[#39]

It's just a lock collar and a hex head screw. I tried to turn down the tip of the screw to fit the dovetail channel, but it's crude.

Posted: 1/30/2015 5:52:03 PM EDT

[#40]

Just ordered a walnut K31 from AIM; can't wait!

What's the best place to get the little things (bayonet, scope mount, etc.)

Posted: 1/30/2015 6:09:28 PM EDT

[#41]

AIM has the accessories to your new K31 too.

Congrats, you're going to love it.

Well, not the scope mount. The one you want is the clamp on made by Swiss Products. I believe Graff & Sons is the exclusive outlet.

Did you pick up some GP11 ammo? Cheaper than anything else available and better quality and more accurate. Get a case (480 rds.)

Posted: 1/30/2015 6:25:58 PM EDT

[#42]

Yeah I picked up what they offered; just pricing the clamped scope mount and a bayonet.

Grabbed 100 rounds for now. Who offers the best price on cans?

Posted: 1/30/2015 6:34:34 PM EDT

[#43]

AIM has bayonets too. Pretty good price it looks like. I think I paid around $75 for mine a few yrs ago and it's been used in drills. Nicks all up and down both edges.

GP11 doesn't come in cans. It comes in cardboard boxes. Again, AIM had the best price when I bought my 1911 last year. What is it now? $5.10/box of 10 when you buy a case? That's ~$245 or .51 cents a round. That's a decent price.

Posted: 2/1/2015 2:40:57 AM EDT

[#44]

Quote History

Quoted:
Yeah I picked up what they offered; just pricing the clamped scope mount and a bayonet.

Grabbed 100 rounds for now. Who offers the best price on cans?

View Quote

Best that I can find is this for about $255/shipped: http://www.sgammo.com/product/surplus/480-round-case-75-x-55-swiss-gp11-174-grain-ball-type-ammunition

Sportmans Guide has the 480rnd cases for just a few dollars more at $260 shipped. Need to use code SH1097 for free shipping.

Posted: 2/1/2015 10:30:19 AM EDT

[#45]

Back when AIM had them for $79, and sometimes cheaper with "gunsmith specials", they were like potato chips. I just could not stop. I find them to be supremely accurate with GP11 surplus. They balance very well and are built with typical Swiss craftsmanship. I still cannot believe the prices they were selling for back in the day.

If I had done my part it would have been one ragged hole at 100yd.

Posted: 2/1/2015 11:20:24 AM EDT

[#46]

So what do you guys use for cleaning/lubricating? Seems waffenfett is hard to find in the US.

Posted: 2/1/2015 11:29:16 AM EDT

[#47]

I use Hoppes #9 to clean and relube with Hoppes gunoil and white lubriplate.

Posted: 2/1/2015 1:39:37 PM EDT

[#48]

I like the idea that waffenfett was intended to clean, lubricate, & protect the metal and wood parts. Anything like that today?

Posted: 2/2/2015 3:17:17 AM EDT

[#49]

Quote History

Quoted: Back when AIM had them for $79, and sometimes cheaper with "gunsmith specials", they were like potato chips. I just could not stop. I find them to be supremely accurate with GP11 surplus. They balance very well and are built with typical Swiss craftsmanship. I still cannot believe the prices they were selling for back in the day.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/johnrippert/K31SixPack.jpg

If I had done my part it would have been one ragged hole at 100yd.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/johnrippert/K31Scope.jpg

View Quote

What mount do you have there?

Posted: 2/2/2015 3:44:23 AM EDT

[#50]

Quote History

Quoted:

What mount do you have there?

View Quote View All Quotes

View All Quotes

Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted: Back when AIM had them for $79, and sometimes cheaper with "gunsmith specials", they were like potato chips. I just could not stop. I find them to be supremely accurate with GP11 surplus. They balance very well and are built with typical Swiss craftsmanship. I still cannot believe the prices they were selling for back in the day.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/johnrippert/K31SixPack.jpg

If I had done my part it would have been one ragged hole at 100yd.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/0903/johnrippert/K31Scope.jpg

What mount do you have there?

He's using the Swiss products clamp on scope mount (aka St Marie mount). It's an excellent mount that does not require permanent modifications to the rifle. Here is a close of up look of the mount:

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Tell me about the Swiss K31 (Page 1 of 2)

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