Mosin-Nagant Mod. 44 Carbine 7.62x54 R

Question
My name is Carl,  and I have the rifle mentioned in the subject line. I've fired a few rounds through it, and had to find a slip-on recoil pad for it. I'm 68yrs old and haven't done much shooting of bigger cal's. lately,

What I would like to know is simply this:-

  Can this rifle be converted to a longer range hunting item. The Mid-West area is where I'm thinking of using it.
I am aware of all that is needed to mount a scope is, but what other kind of conversions are available and practicle?

 These if wearons can be bought inexpensively as Mil. Surp. and resale at present is not a worry some detail. Is there also any leaded (soft nosed) ammo suitable for hunting use?

Yep you're right, too much time on my hands, very little $$, but a head full of idea's...

Answer
Hi,
This site has everything availabe Mod 44.
http://7.62x54r.net/
Accessorries inclusing scope mounts are available here
http://www.tickbitesupply.com/mos.html
http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp;jsessionid=LDQCH31CRX...
http://www.galatiinternational.com/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=...
http://www.surplusrifle.com/reviews/skm44scopemount/index.asp
http://www.mosin-nagant-scope-mount.com/
http://www.opticsbestbuy.com/Specialty-Scopes.html?catID=108&Attribs=162+162pi=1...
http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/cb/cb.aspx?a=119809&kwtid=236103

Ammo with a soft point round for hunting.
http://www.wolfammo.com/bs_riffle_762x54r_2.htm
http://www.sb-usa.com/rifle_pages/sba762x54_r.htm
http://www.winchester.com/products/catalog/cfrdetail.aspx?symbol=MC54RSP&cart=Ny...