Iranian/Persian M1309 (98/29) 8mm Mauser Bolt Action Infantry Rifle, C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,090.00

LSB#: LSB250805WT001

Make: Iran Rifle Factory, Teheran

Model: 1309, AKA the 98/29

Serial Number: 05989 (In Farci Script) C05989 Importer Serial.

Year of Manufacture: 1930s / C&R

Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)

Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine

Markings: The top of the receiver has the Persian crest with the crown over a lion with the sun behind it. The left side has the serial number, “05989” and Farci numerals / writing with the model, “1309”. The right side has Farci script and a crown. All parts are serial matched to the receiver. There are various proofs throughout.

Barrel Length: 29”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular blade post set atop a winged block. The rear sight is a v-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock has a nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the included cleaning rod, barrel band with sling loop, finger grooves, through bolt, sling loop, semi-pistol grip, sling loop, straight comb and a metal buttplate. There are compression marks, small chips, and scratches throughout the wood. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates at about Very Good overall condition as refinished. 

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original to Arsenal Refurbishment.

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion in the bore and no pitting. 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 96% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks throughout with a few spots of thinning. The action has a thick layer of grease. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp and easily visible. 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: Leather sling.

Our Assessment: This Persian/Iranian Model 1309 Mauser, also known as the 98/29, is a beautifully preserved example of one of the finest Mauser rifles ever produced outside Germany. Manufactured in the 1930s at the Iranian State Arsenal in Teheran, these rifles were built using Czech machinery and tooling from Brno, and they exhibit craftsmanship, materials, and tolerances equal to or surpassing many contemporary European military rifles. The “1309” model designation corresponds to the Persian calendar, equivalent to 1930 A.D., and these rifles were directly based on the German Gewehr 98 pattern, featuring a 29” barrel, straight bolt handle, and long sight radius. This rifle is all matching, with serial numbers in Farsi script on the receiver and all major components. The Persian lion and sun crest with crown is still clearly visible on the receiver, a striking and iconic symbol of Iran’s pre-revolutionary monarchy. The blued finish, though arsenal-refinished, remains strong at approximately 96%, with only minor wear and thinning. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and shows only light erosion—an impressive 8.5/10 by antique rifle standards. The walnut stock has been refinished but retains its original military profile with all hardware intact, and it presents solidly with no cracks and only minor wear from storage or handling. The included leather sling adds further utility and authenticity.

These 98/29 rifles are often considered the pinnacle of Persian Mauser production and a testament to the close industrial ties between Iran and Czechoslovakia prior to World War II. With its pristine markings, excellent bore, and smooth mechanics, this rifle is a standout piece for collectors of Mauser variants, Middle Eastern military history, or high-grade bolt-action rifles. -R.E.