Mauser-itis...

[cbuttre835]

Cruised by one of the LGSs today that I usually don't frequent... just had a few minutes to kill.

Back in a little alcove, out of the main flow of traffic, they had a rack of milsurps.

They had M44 Mosins for $299-349... a Gustavs 6.5 for $599... but then I spotted a Spanish M1916 still in 7mm for $119. Rifling wasn't the sharpest and the bore was a tad frosty, but the crown looked OK and it even had a sling.

I can't tell about the bolt; they remove them and store them in a safe I guess... but what research I've done would indicate that even if this didn't have the 3 lug system, it'd still be OK to shoot because it's still in 7mm... correct?

They also had a byf marked 43 8mm with a nice original-looking laminated stock, 98% or so metal finish, slightly frosted bore (but no stock markings or cartouches, but definitely not "bubba'd") for $399... and a very pristine looking Ankara turk '38 model for $299.

A quick gunbroker search shows nothing even close to any of these, price-wise. So now the wheels are turnin' for sure...

Any advice on these? Seems like good money on them and I like milsurps... I don't have any of these and fattening the collection seems appropriate... of course THR is my goto forum for general questions, but if any of y'all have a favorite forum / site for Mauser research, point me in the right direction. Hard to pass up any $119 bolt action rifle... and that byf looks verry appealing too.

As always, TIA.

 

[cal30_sniper]

If the Spanish is still in original condition, and not bubbad, that's a heck of a deal. Since it's a Model 1916, it won't have the 3rd locking lug of the 98, but it's not necessary at all with the moderate pressure 7x57 cartridge. Even in the 98 with the 3rd lug, its not a bearing surface, so the 3rd lug would only ever possibly see use if both front lugs sheared completely off. Not likely. The main improvement of the 98 is its gas handling features, which are far superior to any of the small rings.

Whats the story on the Carl Gustaf? M94, M96, M96/38? It's likely the best out of the bunch if you can talk them down some on the price.

 

[cbuttre835]

The Gustaf certainly had the best bore. I didn't study it much due to the sticker shock; I did notice that it didn't have the threaded muzzle end like I've seen on some Swedes. I'll have to go back and study it and the others too. Joined and been reading on mausercentral.

 

[Uncle Grinch]

Swedish 6.5

Their asking price for the Swede is a little high, unless it's the M94 Carbine. They are very desirable and easily recognizable due to their very short overall length and nose cap.

A typical M96 or M38 (bent bolt if matching #) or M38/96 (straight bolt) often sell anywhere fron $250 - $375 and are excellent shooters.

I picked up an all matching M94 recently at a pawn shop for $350 and was happy to pay that.