Make: Finland, SIG barrel, imported by C.A.I.

Model: M24 "Lotta Rifle"

Serial Number: 518 (only the bolt and barrel match)

Year of Manufacture: 1926-1928 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 7.62x54R

Action Type: Bolt action, internal magazine

Barrel Length: 31.5"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to a base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch escalator screwed and soldered to the barrel, when flipped up a v-notch is visible.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a two piece wood stock with a nose cap and cleaning rod, two sling eyelets, two barrel bands, through bolt, straight wrist, straight comb, with a steel buttplate. The stock has the signature finger joints. The wood shows scattered pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches. There is a crack at the front left sling eyelet and some faint ones where the wood is jointed together on the left side. The LOP measures 13.25" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is fairly worn. There is heavy erosion throughout the bore. The barrel has been counterbored about half an inch at the muzzle. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This firearm retains about 50% of its original metal finish. The finish shows thinning, edge wear, minor dings, and surface scratches. The markings are clear and complete. The screw heads range from unmarred to lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. Overall, this firearm rates in Fair condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This Finnish M24 "Lotta Rifle" was manufactured between 1926 and 1928 and qualifies as a Curio and Relic firearm. Built on the Mosin-Nagant action and fitted with a premium barrel manufactured by Schweizerische Industrie Gesellschaft (SIG), the M24 was procured by the Finnish Civil Guard (Suojeluskunta) rather than the Finnish Army. The rifle earned the nickname "Lotta Rifle" because its purchase was largely funded by donations from the Lotta Svard, whose fundraising efforts helped equip Finland's Civil Guard during the interwar period. This example was issued to the Kymen-Laakson Civil Guard District, adding documented regional history to an already desirable Civil Guard rifle.

Chambered in 7.62x54R with a 31.5 inch barrel, the M24 is renowned for its outstanding barrel quality and improved accuracy over many contemporary Mosin-Nagant variants. The Swiss-made SIG barrels are especially prized by collectors for their exceptional manufacturing standards. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 6 out of 10, showing moderate to heavy wear with visible rifling remaining. The action functions correctly.

The stock rates in about Good overall condition with honest handling wear consistent with military service. This firearm retains approximately 50% of its original metal finish, with expected thinning and wear that complement its military character. Overall, this firearm rates in Fair condition and represents a historically significant Finnish Civil Guard "Lotta Rifle" with a desirable SIG barrel and documented issue to the Kymen-Laakson Civil Guard District. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!