Mosin-Nagant M1891 Obrez

MOSIN-NAGANT M1891 OBREZ. (See also, RIFLE, RUSSIAN FIREARMS) Obrez roughly translates to "cut down"in Russian, though the term has become synonymous with sawed-off shotgun barrels. In the case of the Mosin-Nagant M1891, the "Obrez"designation refers to just such a shortened barrel on what was very clearly a makeshift weapon improvised in the field. Not only the barrel is sawed-off, but also the hand guard and wooden frame have been roughly modified by hand, in evidence by the crude splintering of the wood and the use of leather belts and scrape metal to hold the remaining pieces together. This short-barreled Mosin-Nagant was likely designed for use on more discrete missions, as its size allows for easier concealment and transport. The Mosin-Nagant Obrez is also lighter than the original model, making it easier to handle. However, the weapon's fierce recoil makes it less accurate

Journal of William Salter
Severe water damage, reconstructed by archivist
Unlined paper, 3x5 in.
9/10

july?
I should not have removed the leg. She has been unconscious for a full day now, and though I moisten her lips with water, I fear she suffers for its lack. Black lines run up her body from the festering stump; her blood has surely been poisoned. I have been a fool. Now she lies on the floor of the cabin, brown hair matted with sweat, lips grimacing, limbs limp, moaning. She might have been an ally, and I have, in my madness, used her for target practice. What is wrong with me WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME I

july
Off the porch, I saw a man out way in the woods running. Why? I tried to track him, took the day. Near dusk I came to the banks of the bayou. He was gone. But his things were not. His boots, an overcoat, and a long rifle, with a strange glass sight. Where did he go without his things? Mary is dead, but she keeps me company.