My new $25 Mauser, what is it?

[fatelk]

I picked up this hunk of rust for $25 today. It's obviously a Mauser of some sort, but has no markings that I can find other than the serial #(M480) and an "R" on the barrel shank. It seems to be a 7mm. It is a wall hanger, as it's missing parts and seems badly worn. Mostly I'm curious what country it is from.

Added: OK, frustrating. This photo problem seems to be happening again and I can't figure it out.

 

[Mojo-jo-jo]

There were some Mausers made in a contract for Israel that were specifically contracted without any markings. A moderate number were imported 3-4 years ago. I don't recall if they were in 7mm or not though.

Just a possibility.

 

[weaselchew]

Possibly a M48BO Yugo Mauser. BO = bez oznake ("without markings"). They were made new and also scrubbed German 98 Mausers as well. It should be 8mm though.

 

[groda]

Did it look like this?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Commisiongewehr_1871.jpg

 

[Mojo-jo-jo]

It could very well be a 1871 or 1888 Commission rifle. We really need a photo to help you.

Simple, quick, failsafe photo instructions:

1. Sign up for account at either www.imageshack.us or www.photobucket.com. Imageshack didn't work for me, photobucket did.

2. Take photo and upload to your assignee.

3. Copy the URL to the "direct link" to your photo.

4. Post on THR, select the "Insert Image" button, and paste the URL for the "direct link" to your photo.

5. Done.

(Edit: removed photo to avoid confusion)

 

[fatelk]

I thought I'd give the attachment thing another try, now it works. I wonder if there's a problem with my connection or something?

Measuring the bore, it's definitely 7mm. The bore doesn't look too terrible for an old rust bucket (very dark with strong rifling), but there's lots of muzzle wear. It's missing all the screws that hold it together, barrel bands, as well as the mag follower and spring. Something doesn't feel right with the bolt, and the firing pin hole looks loose. I haven't checked the headspace.

If I get it all cleaned up and decide it looks safe enough, I might fire a few light loads through it, but really I just bought it for an old wall hanger.

 

[paintballdude902]

i have no clue but it looks great whered u get it?

 

[jwxspoon]

It's an M1916 Spanish Mauser. The giveaway is the gas cutout. Shoots 7mm Mauser. I have one in a little better shape and it is a sweet shooter.

jw

 

[Vaarok]

Seconded, 1916 Spanish carbine. Should have an axe and a sword on the top, though possibly buffed off. Good little rifles.