German Spandau Mauser M71/84 Infanterie Gewehr Bolt Rifle 1887 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,275.00
LSB#: LSB250527BS008
Make: Spandau, Germany
Model: Gewehr M71/84
Serial Number: 6760
Year of Manufacture: 1887
Caliber: 11x60mm Mauser (.43)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 4 round tube mag.
Markings: The receiver is marked, “1887 / A.B. MOD 71/84 / 6760” The bolt is marked, ‘6760” The barrel is marked, “SPANDAU / 6760 / E.W. / 11,05” The buttplate is marked, “4.G.R. / E. 2. 205.” There are various proof marks throughout.
Barrel Length: 31.5”
Sights / Optics: The Front sight is a beaded blade set into a serrated ramp. The rear sight is a V-notch ladder sight marked to 16.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece hardwood with a straight grip, straight comb, capped forend with bayonet lug, two barrel bands, sling ring on the bottom of the forward band, sling ring at the front of the trigger guard, stacking rod/magazine tube cap, with a steel buttplate. The right side of the stock has the Spandau logo pressed in. There are pressure dents, light scratches, and scuffs throughout. There are no cracks and no chips. The LOP is 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is some oxidization on the inside of the mag well and on the receiver. There are wear marks on the action and some oxidation. The screw heads are sharp, the markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent 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: This rifle comes with an attachable bayonet marked “5917” on the handle marked “122”. This rifle also includes its leather sling.
Our Assessment:
The Mauser M71/84 Infanterie Gewehr was Germany’s first repeating service rifle, and this 1887-dated example from the Spandau arsenal is a fine representation of late black powder military technology. Based on the single-shot Mauser 1871, the 71/84 introduced a tubular magazine and repeating bolt-action design, placing it firmly in the transitional period between early breechloaders and the smokeless powder smallbores that would soon dominate European arsenals. This rifle is all matching, including the bolt, barrel, receiver, and buttplate, and retains its original configuration with capped forend, stacking rod, bayonet lug, and dual sling points. The bore is exceptional for its age, rating a 9 out of 10, and the stock features the original Spandau cartouche still deeply stamped on the right side. The included bayonet and sling complete this rifle’s historic presentation.
As an antique, this rifle needs no FFL transfer, making it a highly accessible piece of military history for collectors. The Spandau arsenal played a critical role in the German Empire’s military production, and M71/84 rifles like this one saw service both in Europe and abroad in the colonies. Even more desirable is the condition—strong original finish, mechanically sound, and complete with its original furniture and accoutrements. Whether you’re interested in the Mauser lineage, late 19th-century infantry weapons, or simply want a beautifully preserved example of black powder repeaters, this Spandau-made Gewehr 71/84 is a standout that deserves a place in any serious collection. Please look at our photos of this rifle and good luck on your bid! -N.P.
