Matching Iraqi Zastava M48B Mauser Bolt Action Rifle in 7.92x57mm, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,725.00
WOA#: WY240603KN029
Make: Zastava oružje, Yugoslavia. Contracted by Iraq.
Model: M48B
Serial Number: W10190
Year of Manufacture: 1956 to 1965
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver has an Iraqi horse and lion crest. The right side of the receiver is marked, “W 10190” The bolt handle is marked, “10190” The floorplate is marked, “10190” The stock is marked, “10190” There are various proofs throughout. There is an import mark on the barrel.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a v-blade post set atop a ramped base with a protective hood. The rear sight is a v-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece wood stock has a nose cap with bayonet lug, barrel band with sling bar, through bolts, left side mounted sling loop, semi-pistol grip, sling passthrough, steel buttlate. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Very Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued.
Finish Originality: Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is lightly worn. There is moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 6/10.
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 98% of its metal finish. There are faint handling marks throughout. The screw heads are lightly tooled. The markings are 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: Leather sling.
Our Assessment: The Iraqi Zastava M48B Mauser Bolt Action Rifle in 7.92x57mm is a significant example of mid-20th-century military arms, reflecting both the influence of European design and the geopolitical realities of the time. Produced by Zastava Arms in Yugoslavia, the M48B is a variant of the widely respected Mauser 98 pattern rifle, known for its robustness, accuracy, and reliability. The adoption of this rifle by Iraq underscores the global reach of the Mauser design and the influence of Yugoslavian arms manufacturing during the post-World War II period. Chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, also known as 8mm Mauser, the Iraqi Zastava M48B offered a powerful cartridge that was widely used in both world wars and remained popular in many countries’ arsenals. The 8mm Mauser round is known for its high velocity, flat trajectory, and effective stopping power, making it well-suited for a variety of military engagements. For the Iraqi military, this cartridge provided a balance of range and firepower, ideal for the diverse combat scenarios they might encounter. Iraq’s acquisition of the Zastava M48B during the mid-20th century was part of its broader strategy to modernize its military forces in a period marked by regional conflicts and the shifting allegiances of the Cold War. The rifle served in the Iraqi military during a time of considerable turmoil, including internal strife and wars with neighboring countries. The M48B’s solid construction and dependable performance made it a valuable asset in the Iraqi arsenal.
Today, the Iraqi Zastava M48B Mauser Bolt Action Rifle is of interest to military historians and collectors, not only for its technical merits but also for its historical context. The rifle represents a period when Iraq, like many other nations, sought to equip its forces with reliable, proven weaponry to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape. The M48B remains a testament to the enduring legacy of the Mauser design and its widespread influence on military small arms across the world. -R.E.
