M1938 Mosin
While the M1938 was never officially issued with detachable box magazines, many were captured from the Germans or modified by Soviet forces. Detachable 10‑round box magazines (often 7.62×54mmR) were adapted from German Luger‑style magazines or custom‑made by Soviet technicians. These modifications were common in the field, especially as the war progressed and supply lines changed.
Key points about captured/modified M1938s with 10‑round magazines:
- Magazine type: 10‑round box magazines, similar in size to German Luger magazines, adapted to fit the Mosin‑Nagant bolt‑action feed system.
- Feed mechanism: Required manual loading; the bolt‑action design meant magazines were inserted into the receiver and locked in place.
- Advantages: Increased ammunition capacity compared to the standard 5‑round magazine, improving sustained fire in close‑quarters combat.
- Disadvantages: Required more frequent cleaning and maintenance; the shorter barrel and lighter stock could make handling heavier magazines awkward.
Operational Role
The M1938’s compact size made it ideal for urban fighting, vehicle transport, and support roles. Captured or modified versions with 10‑round magazines would have been especially useful in these scenarios, allowing soldiers to carry more rounds without the bulk of a full rifle.
Collector & Historical Notes
Today, the M1938 is valued for its historical significance and durability. Captured/modified examples with 10‑round magazines are rarer and often sought by collectors, as they represent the adaptability of Soviet small arms in wartime conditions
In summary: The Soviet Mosin‑Nagant M1938 carbine was a compact, bayonet‑less rifle designed for support troops. While originally fed from a 5‑round fixed magazine, many captured or modified versions were fitted with 10‑round detachable box magazines, improving ammunition capacity in the field. These modified rifles remain notable in both military history and the collector’s market.
i was searching through google and ai spit something out about mosins and arisakas with field modifications to feed from ten round magazines. i lost the ai gibberish about the arisaka but the mosin seems to have used luger magazines. am doing more research but am on an xbox and will store this here for others to view and help me out if they wish.