I have five mosins.
Two 91/30's, two m44's and one m38.
The "38" is easily my favorite ........ by a MILE!
If I were buying one to experiment on, I'd buy a m44 for cheap because the barrel is already in the range you are experiencing with the "38"
And here's something I think you'll get a big kick out of:
http://www.gswagner.com/
Enjoy!!
Three 44s