Belgian Mauser Model 1889/36 Short Rifle In 7.65x53mm, Antique
SOLD FOR: $2,725.00
WOA#: WY240603KN033
Make: Fabrique Nationale Herstal, Belgium
Model: 1889/36
Serial Number: 65214
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1890s
Caliber: 7.65x53mm
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “MANUFACTURE D’ARMES DE L’ETAT” The left side of the receiver and barrel are marked, “65214” The bolt handle is marked, “52038” The floor plate is marked, “2826” There are various proofs throughout.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular blade post set between two protective ears. The rear sight is a v-notch blade attached to an escalator assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a capped forend/bayonet lug & cleaning rod, barrel band W/ sling loop, through bolt, straight wrist, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate. The stock has been refinished. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There is a small crack at the receiver on the right side. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is semi-sharp. There is faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 8.5/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 65% of its metal finish. The receiver and magwell have heavy thinning. There is thinning and patina throughout. There are scratches, nicks, and impact marks throughout. The screw heads show light to moderate use. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Belgian Mauser Model 1889/36 Short Rifle in 7.65x53mm is a significant firearm that represents Belgium’s efforts to modernize its military armament in the early 20th century. This rifle is an evolution of the original Model 1889, which was the first Mauser rifle adopted by the Belgian Army and marked a significant advancement in military firearms technology at the time. Chambered in the 7.65x53mm cartridge, the Model 1889/36 was designed to offer a balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil. The 7.65x53mm cartridge was favored for its ballistic performance, providing a good mix of velocity and stopping power. It was widely used in Belgium and several other countries, particularly in South America, where it became a standard military round. The “1889/36” designation indicates that this rifle is a modified version of the original Model 1889. The modifications made in 1936 were part of Belgium’s broader efforts to update its military firearms to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. The most notable change was the shortening of the barrel, which transformed the original long rifle into a more compact and maneuverable short rifle. This modification was in line with the global trend during the interwar period, where many nations moved towards shorter rifles that were easier to handle in the increasingly mobile and mechanized warfare environments. In addition to the shortened barrel, the Model 1889/36 featured updated sights, designed to improve accuracy and target acquisition. These modifications made the rifle more suitable for the infantry role, providing soldiers with a weapon that was both accurate and effective at typical combat ranges. The rifle also retained the distinctive straight bolt handle, a characteristic feature of many Mauser designs of that era. The Belgian Mauser Model 1889/36 saw service in the Belgian Army during a turbulent period in European history, including the lead-up to and the early years of World War II. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by more modern rifles developed later, the 1889/36 was a reliable and effective firearm that served its purpose well.
Overall, the Belgian Mauser Model 1889/36 Short Rifle in 7.65x53mm is a historically important firearm that reflects Belgium’s adaptation to the changing demands of modern warfare. Its combination of a robust Mauser action, practical modifications, and historical context makes it a noteworthy piece in the history of military arms. -R.E.
