German C96 Mauser Broomhandle Bolo 7.63x25mm Semi-Auto Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,713.99
LSB#: LSB251107RG001
Make: Mauserwerke Oberndorf A/N Germany
Model: Model C-96 Bolo
Serial Number: 517653
Year of Manufacture: 1923 – 1930 / C&R
Caliber: 7.63x25mm
Action Type: Single Action Short Recoil Semi–Auto Pistol with Internal Magazine
Markings: The side of the barrel extension is marked with the serial number, “517563” and, “WAFFENFABRIC MAUSER OBERNDORF A/N”. Not all serialized parts are matched to the receiver. The right side of the frame is marked, “WAFFENFABRIC MAUSER OBERNDORF A.NEKAR” and the left side is marked with the Mauser banner. The stock is serial matched to the receiver.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notch rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-1000” that is pinned to the receiver. The front sight is an inverted “V” notch integral to a rectangular base fixed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece ribbed wood panels. There are moderate scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are no cracks but there are a few small chips. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good + condition. The stock has scratches and moderate pressure dents throughout. There are several large cracks throughout. Overall the stock/holster rates in Fair to Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is little to no erosion in the bore but there is some light stubborn fouling. There is a light patina in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 8/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 75% of its metal finish. There is moderate patina, wear, and small scratches and impact marks throughout. There are light spots of rust freckles throughout. The action has light wear and patina. The grip screw is mostly sharp, the pins are mostly undamaged. The markings are mostly visible with some light wear. Overall, this pistol is in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: Original serial matched stock-holster.
Our Assessment: This German Mauser C96 “Bolo” Broomhandle represents a distinctive interwar variant of Mauser’s iconic self-loading pistol, produced between 1923 and 1930 during a period of political restriction and export-focused manufacturing at Oberndorf. The Bolo configuration, characterized by its shortened 4-inch barrel and compact grip frame, was developed in response to post–World War I regulations and market demand, particularly for export to Eastern Europe and Russia. Despite its reduced size, the Bolo retained the unmistakable C96 profile, internal magazine fed by stripper clips, and long-range tangent rear sight, embodying Mauser’s continued commitment to precision machining and innovative design well into the Weimar era. Chambered in 7.63x25mm Mauser, the original high-velocity cartridge for the C96 platform, this pistol remains mechanically sound and representative of the model’s reputation for flat trajectory and penetration. This example retains approximately 75 percent of its original blued finish, with moderate patina, scattered wear, and light rust freckling consistent with age and use. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and minimal erosion, rating 8 out of 10, though light fouling and a faint internal patina are present. Not all serialized parts are matched to the receiver, a common condition among C96 pistols that saw long service lives and periodic maintenance, while the markings remain mostly legible with honest wear.
A particularly notable feature is the inclusion of the original serial-matched stock-holster, a highly desirable component that significantly enhances both historical context and collector appeal. The stock shows substantial service wear with scratches, pressure dents, and several large cracks, rating Fair to Good, yet it remains an authentic and correct accompaniment to the pistol. Overall condition of the pistol rates Good, reflecting a well-used but intact example of one of the most recognizable semi-automatic pistols of the early 20th century. As a Curio and Relic eligible Mauser C96 Bolo with matching stock, this offering stands as a compelling artifact from the transitional years between Imperial Germany and the interwar export trade, valued for its originality, mechanical integrity, and enduring historical significance. -R.E.