Mauser Es 340B Target Rifle – Single Shot ……………… (F 1200)

Superb Example of the Mauser Es 340B Target Rifle

Originating from the mindset of the DSM 34 this rifle was one of Mausers most prolificaly produced single shot bolt action Target Rifles.  This version was made around the time when the design slightly changed, from the early to the late configuration.  For that reason it has a mixture of features found on both early and later types.  It was one of the rifles that Germany surreptitously produced to navigate around the Treaty of Versailles. They marketed it as purely a Sporting Rifle, purely for Target shooting. However, and as time would tell, it bore more than a passing resemblance to a regular K98 battle rifle!

The rifle carries the serial number “166198” where alterations from early to later types started to appear around the 154,000 mark.  This example is a single shot version with an oval shaped loading port.  It has the early dove-tail grooves for mounting a scope and the early type Mauser banner on top of the receiver ring.  It does not have a stepped ring like the DSM which proceeded it but it does have the gas escape port on the left hand side of the action.

The makers details on the LHS of the action are positioned in the later position, directly in the centre, and read; “MAUSER WERKE A.G. OBERNDORF A.N.” Between that and the barrel is the full serial number “166198” and the BUG/Crown proof marks.  Moving along the barrel, adjacent to the address are a full set of BUG proofs and a repeat of the serial number. Beneath the number is the official calibre marking; “PATRONE 22 LONG RIFLE”  just above the woodwork.  This is in English as many were exported to the USA before the war.  Directly opposite are the factory patent markings; “D.R.P. D.R.G.M.”

Although one of the most basic of Mauser’s rifles it is equiped with a very good rear sight soldered directly to the barrel.  It is graduated from 30 to 200 meters.  It has no easily adjustble windage but with the aid of a screwdriver and a small sprung catch on its LHS it may be set for different conditions.  It is no accident that it looks almost the same as a K98 rear sight.  Bolt release as conventional full bore Mauser, to left rear of action.

Mauser-type bolt with recessed bolt face of the later design.  A safety flag to the rear with three positions.  The bolt arm stem has the last four digits of the serial number on the underside and more BUG proofs.  Serrated trigger with checkered trigger guard.  When the trigger guard is removed the actual trigger break can be adjusted by a slotted screw within the mechanism.  The rifle is 45.1/4″ long.  The round heavy blued barrel is 26.3/4″ long and the Trigger Pull is 14.5/8″ to center.  A large individual could use this rifle.  Blueing on action and barrel remain in excellent condition with little obvious deterioration.  Two small patches of surface disruption have occurred but the colour has remained and they are barely noticeable to the eye unless you know they are there.  The bolt arm has lost finish where the most human contact occurs.  The one-piece stock has a steel butt-plate with no colour to it but a superb Mauser banner across the centre.

Smooth figured walnut stock showing its natural colour with semi-pistol grip.  A complete and clear Mauser roundle cartouche is displayed upon the RH face of the butt-stock.  Two sling swivels are fixed into the underside of the stock.  Simple inverted “V” fore-sight on a ramp.  The actual pointer for that sight is interchangeable.  Minimal dents or scratches to surface of stock and a rich yellow to orangey-brown to its colour – not stained.  Mechanically sound with an excellent bore.  Perfect rifling with no disruption or damage.  This should prove to be an excellent shooter.

Taking into account the rifles’ age, it is very difficult to fault this weapon.  One might even approach using this reliable sturdy trainer with some trepidation because, if you can’t hit the target with this, then it truely is time to find another hobby!

Stock No F 1200 – FAC Required

£ 925.

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