I've been one who has never purchased a milsurp gun from a dealer. I've purchased a few guns over the internet and for the most part am happy with the purchases. It's a good idea to know a little something about the model you're seeking out. Do some searching on the net to find out the best models to buy. Some are cheap, but you get what you pay for. If you aren't a gunsmith or mechanically handy, then better look for one in very-good to excellent condition. Now, back to the original question: How do you find a good milsurp?
Some of the guys here are collectors and Big Bill is one who holds a C&R licence. That allows him to purchase milsurp guns that fall in "curio and relic statis" w/o going through the ffl transfer agent cost, or repeated background checks.
If you are starting out and have never purchased a gun, the transaction must go through an ffl agent and acceptable background check done on you. You must find an ffl agent that will receive the gun shipment, after you buy the gun from an auction or individul. You then pick up the gun from the ffl agent and pay the man his $15-25 whatever he charges. Most auctions or importers will allow you a 3-day inspection of the gun but you are not allowed to fire the gun or disasemble it. It's best to ask ALL the questions about the gun before you purchase it, because if it does not meet your approval, you have to negotiate the return with the seller, and that will cost you further if you must pay to ship it back. At this point, I will say Good Luck and let me know if I can do anything more to help. I have a list of C&R Dealers you can reach on line
http://home.earthlink.net/~paralax1/page9.htmsavageT
