CARCANO M38 for Sale
Browse Carcano m38 listings from verified sellers across the U.S. on GunsAmerica.
Quick Look
The Carcano M38 was developed by Italy in the late 1930s as an improvement over previous Carcano rifles. It offered a shorter, handier design for infantry use during World War II. Today, it occupies a nostalgic niche in the surplus rifle market among collectors and military history enthusiasts.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Compact carbine layout enables better maneuverability
- Chambered for the unique 6.5x52mm round
- Fixed sights calibrated for close- to mid-range targets
- Rich historical value among WWII collectors
- Simple bolt-action design aids reliability
Key Variants
Carcano M38 Cavalry Carbine
Folding bayonet model used by Italian cavalry and paratroopers for close-quarters versatility.
Carcano M38 Short Rifle
Standard infantry configuration with improved sights and shorter barrel for battlefield mobility.
Carcano M91/38
Transitional model using shortened M91 actions and existing stocks post-1938 conversion.
Carcano M38 TS
Troop Special version made for second-line or auxiliary forces needing a lighter rifle.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Carcano M38 | Mosin Nagant 91/30 | Mauser K98 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Surplus, varies | Surplus, varies | Surplus, varies |
| Caliber | 6.5x52mm | 7.62x54R | 8mm Mauser |
| Weight | ~7.3 lbs | ~8.8 lbs | ~9.0 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No (varies by scope mount) | No (unless sniper variant) |
| Trigger Type | Single-stage military | Two-stage military | Two-stage military |
| Notable Pro | Compact and lightweight | Widely available ammo | Excellent war-time accuracy |
| Notable Con | Ammunition hard to source | Heavy and long | Higher recoil |
Best Use Cases
- Military surplus rifle collection
- Historical reenactments
- Hobby range shooting
- WWII-era firearms education
FAQs
Can I still buy ammo for the Carcano M38?
Yes, but 6.5x52mm Carcano is limited in supply. Look for newly manufactured or surplus lots.
What is the effective range of the Carcano M38?
The effective range is about 300-500 yards with iron sights, depending on shooter skill.
How does the Carcano M38 feed ammunition?
It uses a 6-round Mannlicher-style clip, inserted fully into the internal magazine.
Prefer nearby results? Toggle to search local listings.
WW2 Russian M38 Izhevsk 1944 Matching 7.
$600.00
WW2 Russian M38 Izhevsk 1943 Matching 7.
$625.00
Carl Gustafs/C.A.I. M38
$799.99
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