M1896 Carl Gustafs Prize Rifle…..(F 832) (SOLD)

Interesting Swedish Mauser with Danish connection

Standard configuration Carl Gustafs Bolt Action Mauser in 6.5 x 55mm.  Equipped with an internal 5-shot magazine.  Bent bolt handle scalloped to clear the scope.  Full length infantry rifle with excellent European straight wrist walnut stock.  Finger groves in the fore-end with handguard over the barrel.  The stocks show all the normal signs of a long military career but there are no splits or shakes.  Finish over steel parts shows the barrel being the strongest with some edge wear but the balance has started turning to plumb brown in places.

The original rifle carries the serial number “14110” this is from records as the digit “4” has unfortunately been obliterated by the scope mount drillings.  All other ancillary parts match but the bolt is from another rifle, serial number ending “225”.  The receiver is marked with the normal carl Gustaf crest and makers name and the date is 1899.

Overall the rifle measures 49.1/4″ long.  The round blued barrel is 29″ long and the trigger pull is 14″ to centre.  This example has at some time had a Williams-type aperture sight fitted to the RHS rear of the action.  Two threaded hole remain and a slight cut-out in the stock top edge give testament to the removed item.  It is apparent that this rifle has some linage wrapped around the heritage of target shooting as the RHS on the butt-stock is fitted with a silver plaque in the shape of a large shield.  It is inscribed in Danish as follows:- “HONRARY AUTHORITYS’ HONOUR AWARD OF THE HILLDERGARD THORELL DONATION FUND”  Doesn’t make much sense from Google Translate but there is obviously some more research to be done there!

As mentioned above the action sidewall has been drilled for a scope mount in the normal military fashion, but it is without the locking pins which usually accompany such a fitment.  Instead just three large holes retain the reproduction side-rail mount.  At present a modern mill-dot scope by HAWKE is fitted.  It is a 3 – 9 x 40mm item with clear reticule.  At present the bolt has to be worked open handed as the scalloped surface just contacts the rear of the scope body.

The rifle is fitted with an original Swedish military leather sling and retains its full-length cleaning rod.  It has a stepped muzzle and the front band has fixing facility for the standard steel bayonet.  Standard open sights are still fitted but unusable in the weapons present configuration.  The rifle is dirty and would benefit from a complete strip and clean – not to mention a more sympathetic scope but that is up to the new owner.

Stock No’ F 832

 £ 795.(SOLD)

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