Paul S. Scarlata

Bolt Action Military Rifles are the hottest field in arms collecting today - and it's easy to see why! While there are plenty of inexpensive examples out there to entice beginning collectors, there are just as many great rarities and exotic models for the experts. In this new book, author Paul Scarlata, one of the most recognized names in gun writing today, covers all aspects of this exciting field. He clearly describes all of the various bolt action systems used by the different nations, and how they differ from each other. Over 400 large photographs detail key features you will need to recognize in order to identify guns for your collection. Learn the original military configurations of these service rifles so that you can tell them apart from altered guns and bad restorations. The historical sections are particularly strong, giving readers a clear understanding of how and why these rifles were developed, and which troops used them. Advanced collectors will be fascinated by the countless historical photographs of these guns in the hands of troops. And, in order to show which rifles were superior to others and why some armies had an advantage over their rivals, Scarlata tests a selection of these rifles on the range, giving you in-depth reports on their performance, not just for accuracy, but for ease of use, durability, quality of ammunition and combat effectiveness. During the era of the classic bolt action military rifle, a soldier's rifle was his best friend, protecting him from danger and serving him faithfully. For today's collector, Paul Scarlata's exciting new book may be just as important.