M96 Swedish Mauser Rifle……………(f 685) SOLD

A typically high standard M96 Sweed in 6.5 x 55mm

Receiver ring marked ” Sweedish Crown / CARL GUSTAFS STADS / GEVARSFAKTORI. / 1908″  which does correspond with the serial number “223362” marked on the side of the action. Also clearly stamped just before the number are the letters “J.V.” these were the inspectors initials, Jacques Virgin who was inspector between 1905 to 1911. Whilst at the factory he held the military rank of Captain from the 2nd Artillery Regiment. He later took up the position of Director of the Carl Gustafs factory from 1911 until 1933.

Many matching numbers all over the weapon, or part numbers. The bolt is finished in the “bright”. Clearly stamped with Swedish crown inspection marks and the last part of the serial number 362, on the safety, cocking piece, bolt handle head and bolt shroud. It goes without saying that the mechanism is so well finished that it is not only smooth in operation but actually glides through the process of  functioning.  The bolt release catch is blued with a nitre-blue spring and is stamped 362.

The bore is excellent with crisp rifling and no pitting or misting. Trigger guard and floor plate are blued with matching numbers and correct crowns for Carl Gustafs plant.  As are the barrel band and bayonet fixing nose cap. Correct full length cleaning rod but from another rifle.  This is the only incorrectly numbered part in the entirety of the rifle.  The steel butt-plate is marked on the tang with crown and 362. The stepped muzzle still retains a good crown.  Overall length 49.3/4″. Barrel length 29″.  Pull measurement 14″. Round blued barrel is in excellent condition and retains all original finish with next to no wear on the high points.

Fixed standard fore-sight. Correct rear sight, graduated on top from 300 meters to 600, then when flipped up from 700 meters to 2000. This long range system was only used by the rifleman for simultaneous volley fire. It is possible to fit the rear sight with the Vasteras micrometre rear sight insert, which aids accuracy.

The European walnut rifle stock and handguard are in fine condition with only minimal handling marks or scuffs. The stock has finger grooves below the rear sight.  On the right hand side of the stock is a later type brass stock disk. These disks are typical of the Swedish mauser and describe the measurement and condition of the rifles bore. (see” The Crown Jewels” p168, by Dana Jones).

£ 695.00.  (SOLD)

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