Mauser C96 C-96 Broomhandle 7.63x25mm .30 Semi-Automatic Pistol, 1914 C&R

SOLD FOR: $2775

LSB#: 210721TS21

Make: Mauser

Model: C96

Serial Number: 218583

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1914

Caliber: 7.63mm Mauser

Action Type: Single Action Semi–Auto with Internal Magazine

Markings: The top of the barrel extension’s chamber ring is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left shoulder is marked “218583” and the left has a crowned “U”. The bottom of the barrel has inspection markings. The right of the frame has “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A. NECKAR”. The top of the bolt stop is marked “583”. The top of the bolt at the rear is marked with a crowned “U” and “583”. The top of the bolt locking block is marked “583”. The sear is marked “583”. The rear face of the frame is marked “218583”. The rear face of the lock frame is marked “218583”. The rear of the hammer has “583”. The top of the magazine floorplate is marked “583”. The inside of each grip panel is stamped “583”. The left of the barrel extension is unit-marked “R.J.R.120.”, the right has British proof marks.

Barrel Length: 5 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a “V” notched rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-1000” that is pinned to the barrel extension. The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated wood panels. The grips show moderate handling wear with scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. The serrations show wear, but are clearly visible. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Good-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright. The rifling is well defined. There is scattered light erosion and some minor pitting in the bore.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 35% of its metal finish. Most of the remaining finish is in the sides and top of the barrel extension. Other surfaces are mostly worn or gone to a light patina. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The left of the frame has some more notable nicks and voids in the finish. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Good-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes with a wood stock/holster. The mounting bracket is marked “945”, not matching the pistol. There are a series of repaired cracks around the mouth of the holster. There are scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. Overall, the stock/holster is in about Good-Very Good condition as repaired.

Our Assessment: The Broomhandle Model 1896 Mauser is certainly an interesting looking firearm. Its features are the most distinctive of any other pistol. In addition to being popularized in Soviet films as the iconic weapon of the Russian revolution and civil war, it was even used as a basis for futuristic weapons like the blaster used by Han Solo in Star Wars. This pistol was made around 1914 and has some interesting markings. It has a German unit marking, indicating that it was issued during WWI and it also has British proof marks, indicating that it made its way across the pond, possibly with a Tommy. It has serial matching parts and wear which could be considered light considering the typical wear of WWI issued firearms. This will make a great addition to a WWI military or early autoloading handgun collection. Please see our photos and good luck!