Hungarian Mannlicher 35M 8x56mmR Bolt Action Rifle & NCO Bayonet, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,600.00
LSB#: WY241122AS034
Make: Fegyver- és Gépgyártó Részvénytársaság (FÉG)
Model: 35M Puska
Serial Number: C-9793
Year of Manufacture: Circa, late 1930s
Caliber: 8x56mmR
Action Type: Bolt Action, 8 Round Internal Magazine Tube.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “BUDAPEST 35M”. The barrel is marked with the serial number, “C-9793”. The buttplate is non-matched to the receiver. The stock has, “ST VEPRED PACKA” carved into the left side. The bayonet is marked, “A-745”.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a chevron dovetailed atop a ramped block. The rear sight is a V-notch flip-up escalator assembly marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood stock with a forend cap/bayonet lug, barrel band w/ 2 sling bars, finger grooves, stock collar, semi-pistol grip, sling loop, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are chips throughout the stock. There are cracks at the wrist. The LOP is 13 ¼”. The stock rates in aboutGood overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion in the bore with moderate pitting throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 5/10 for an Antique.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 30% of its metal finish. There is moderate to heavy thinning and patina throughout along with scratches and wear marks. The receiver retains much of its finish. The leading edges are worn. The action has moderate to heavy wear. The bottom metal has small impact marks throughout. The screw heads are mostly sharp, the markings are faded. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition. The NCO Parade bayonet retains much of its chrome finish. The blade is in good shape and the frog is in good shape. Overall this bayonet is in 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: 35M NCO Parade bayonet, leather sling.
Our Assessment: The Hungarian Mannlicher 35M is a robust and historically significant bolt-action rifle, designed to meet the needs of Hungary’s armed forces during the interwar period. Chambered in 8x56mmR, this rifle was developed as part of Hungary’s efforts to modernize its military arsenal following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire after World War I. Built around the Mannlicher straight-pull bolt-action system, the 35M offers smooth operation and reliable performance, making it a trusted tool for Hungary’s soldiers during World War II. The 8x56mmR cartridge, adopted by Hungary and other former Austro-Hungarian states, is known for its powerful ballistics, making the 35M effective at long ranges. The rifle’s bolt-action design, though rooted in earlier Mannlicher models, was tailored to Hungarian specifications, incorporating ergonomic and practical updates to suit the needs of its military. The rifle’s rugged construction and robust design ensured it could perform reliably in harsh conditions, from Eastern Europe’s dense forests to its wide-open plains.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the Hungarian Mannlicher 35M represents an intriguing piece of history tied to Hungary’s military efforts during a tumultuous period. Its unique design, blending Mannlicher mechanics with Hungarian innovations, sets it apart from other bolt-action rifles of its era. Whether appreciated for its historical context, its association with Hungary’s military, or its functional design, the 35M is a compelling firearm that reflects the adaptability and resilience of Hungary’s armed forces in the face of significant geopolitical challenges. -R.E.
