German C96 Mauser Broomhandle Bolo 7.63x25mm Semi-Auto Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,201.00
LSB#: LSB260415MJ011
Make: Mauserwerke Oberndorf a/N, Germany
Model: Model C-96 Bolo
Serial Number: 603107
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, “603107” and, “WAFFENFABRIK 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.NECKAR” and the left side is marked with the Mauser banner.
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 a barleycorn blade integral to a rectangular base fixed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels. The panels are loose. There are heavy pressure dents and scratches throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fair condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is very faint if there at all. There is very heavy erosion in the bore along with moderate pitting. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 2/10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about None of its metal finish. There is heavy thinning, wear, pitting marks, and patina throughout. The grip screw is tooled, the pins are moderately tooled. The markings are mostly worn and faded. Overall, this pistol is in about Very Poor 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Mauser C96 “Bolo” is one of the most recognizable and historically significant self-loading pistols ever produced. The Bolo variant earned its nickname from its popularity among Bolshevik revolutionaries and was distinguished by its shorter barrel and compact grip profile compared to earlier commercial C96 models. Chambered in the high-velocity 7.63x25mm Mauser cartridge, the C96 established a reputation for excellent range, reliability, and innovative design. Few handguns have had a greater influence on military pistol development or achieved the worldwide recognition enjoyed by the Mauser Broomhandle. This example shows extensive evidence of long service and heavy use. The pistol retains virtually none of its original finish, with widespread wear, pitting, patina, and handling marks throughout. The grips exhibit significant wear with chips, cracks, looseness, and evidence of refinishing. The bore is heavily worn with severe erosion, pitting, and extremely faint rifling, supporting its 2 out of 10 rating. Additionally, not all serialized components remain matched, and many markings have become faint through years of use and handling.
Altogether, this C96 Bolo should be viewed primarily as a historic collector piece, restoration candidate, or representative example of one of the most influential handgun designs ever produced. While condition issues are significant, the pistol retains its historical identity as a genuine Mauser Broomhandle from the interwar period. For collectors interested in original military and commercial Mauser pistols, even heavily worn examples such as this remain desirable due to the enduring significance and collectibility of the C96 platform. -R.E.