Mauser C96 Cycling Problem

[FG242]

Hi, When shooting my C96 in 9mm the bolt closes on a new round normally but the barrel and extension assy doesn't move into the locked position. It must be touched slightly at the rear of bolt--then it snaps into place and the sear resets. I've replaced both recoil spring & mainspring with no results. The pistol overall is in outstanding condition & has seen little abuse. A new round drops by gravity into the chamber, so there is no binding there. The extractor engages the cartridge rim as it should. The bolt is not binding in extension. The lock mechanism & its related parts are clean and appear to function properly. I've cleaned and lubricated the entire gun. I have other broomhandles and have never experienced this problem. Do any of you broomhandle owners or gunsmith have any ideas? I would appreciate any help. Thank You. Frank

 

[4v50 Gary]

Are you using FMJ bullets that are loaded to NATO spec? What I'm suggesting is that your ammo may be underpowered.

I know NATO was not around during WW I, but can someone find the military specs for 9mm during WW I?

 

[FG242]

Thanks for your reply. I'm using 115 gr FMJ factory ammo. It cycles flawlessly in my other C96's of 9mm cal. I am going to disassemble the lock mechanism & polish all mating parts-- may be some excess friction hidden there in. Thanks again. Frank

 

[Jim K]

Unless that is an original "Red Nine" it was not made for 9mm P. More likely, it was a 7.63 caliber Chinese contract gun that was converted by the importer. Those guns often show improper chamber dimensions, short headspace, or other quality control problems. You don't say how much you have fired the gun, but very often such "bugs" work themselves out after 100-200 rounds.

Jim

 

[FG242]

Thanks Jim for your input. My C96 is a Red 9 w/ 500M sights & s/n 72xxx, with NS hammer plus matching numbers. I haven't shot the pistol but approx. 25 times and most likely will not shoot it much more. At lease no more until after the cycle problem is solved. Also the C96 may have never seen service as it is in unusual condition. It hasn't been reworked or reblued. You may be right--It may work its problem out by some further use. Thanks for your efforts and kindness. Frank