Getting a Nazi Era Mauser

[Homerboy]

My father in law was gifted a rifle from his uncle about 5 years ago. He's not a gun guy so he never even looked at it. He's getting ready to move and figured I could use it. I have t seen it in person but I will have it in hand next week.

It's a Mauser with a 1940 date on the receiver. He says there are several numbers on it that he doesn't know what they mean, and 2 swasticas with Eagles above them. Says the wood looks good but has some dings. Says metal looks good with no rust.

I'll post pics when I get it next week. But what's it worth? I doubt I'll sell it. I like the history of it and it will compliment my Garand. On the other hand, I'm a bit leery of owning a weapon that may have killed an American or ally.

 

[Ohio Gun Guy]

It's a piece of history... Sounds like a vet bring back...

Dont modify it or alter it. Oil and clean (Becarefull how you clean it) dont "Shine it up".

Interested in seeing the pictures.

 

[Homerboy]

Yeah. His uncle served in England during WWII.

 

[yzguy87]

If only wood and steel could talk!

 

[19-3Ben]

I'm a bit leery of owning a weapon that may have killed an American or ally.

The weapon didn't kill anyone. The soldier holding the weapon killed people. BIG difference.

But what's it worth?

Without seeing the markings on it to know where it was made, whether it's a rare variant, condition, what stuff comes with it (bayonet, sling,etc..) it's impossible to say. Post very good very detailed pic of metal condition, wood condition, accessories, and all markings on it when you get it, and the guys here will be able to give you a very good idea of value.


Welcome to the Mauser club. They are great great guns, and it sounds like yours has a rich family history too.

 

[HexHead]

Prices on those have gone up, probably around $700-800.

 

[bannockburn]

Homerboy

I would say any Mauser with a 1940 date on it would typically bring a bit more than your average Mauser built later during the war. Most weapons made early on exhibited better fit and finish than those that were assembled later due to increasing pressures brought on by Allied bombings and a shortage of skilled labor. As well as from the simple fact that many of the earlier dated guns were lost in action.

 

[Garrobo]

These old Mausers

can be worth any where from $100 to a thousand depending on the maker, year, condition, caliber, etc. In the 80's I was buying them 5 for $100 delivered and came up with some pretty good rifles. When they started selling Turkish Mausers and the arsenals released all the old 8mm ammo to go with them, that was the heyday. Too bad it's all over with.