Mauser C96 Model 1930 M30 Broomhandle 7.63mm/30 Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,325.00

LSB#: WY240804MY009

Make: Mauser

Model: C96

Serial Number: 257848

Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1915-1916

Caliber: 7.63mm Mauser

Action Type: Single Action Semi–Auto with Internal Magazine

Markings: The top of the barrel extension’s chamber ring is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left has a crowned “U” proof, the left shoulder is marked “257848”. The bottom of the barrel has inspection markings. The right of the frame has “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A. NECKAR”. The top of the bolt stop is marked “848”. The top of the bolt at the rear is marked with a crowned “U” and “848”. The top of the bolt locking block is marked “848”. The sear is marked “848”. The rear face of the frame is marked “257848”. The rear face of the lock frame is marked “257848”. The rear of the hammer has “848”. The top of the magazine floorplate is marked “848”. The inside of each grip panel is stamped “848”. 

Barrel Length: 5 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a “V” notched rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-1000” that is pinned to the barrel extension. The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated wood panels. The grips have a few light nicks and scratches. The serrations on the left panel are mostly worn away, better defined on the right panel. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition as refinished. 

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray with well defined rifling. There is light erosion throughout the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 5 or 6 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 10% of its metal finish. Finish remains only in protected areas. Most exposed surfaces have worn or gone to a light patina. Most raised edges are worn to white. There are some nicks, scuffs and scratches. There is some scattered minor surface oxidation. There is infrequent erosion, mostly under the grip panels. The action shows operational wear. The screw head is tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The trigger is crisp. 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:  This pistol comes with a refinished wood stock/holster and a 1916-marked leather harness for the stock/holster with cleaning rod. The tangs of the mounting bracket have been polished bright and are not marked, there is a crack at one corner of the mouth of the holster. The harness appears to be a reproduction.

Our Assessment: The Broomhandle Model 1896 Mauser is certainly an interesting looking firearm. Its features are the most distinctive of any other pistol. In addition to being popularized in Soviet films as the iconic weapon of the Russian revolution and civil war, it was even used as a basis for futuristic weapons like the blaster used by Han Solo in Star Wars. This example was made during the Great War and may have seen service with the Imperial German Army.

The pistol has serial matching parts and wear consistent with its age. It retains a little original finish with a fair bore and strong mechanics. Its will make it a great addition to a Mauser, WWI small arms, or early autoloading handgun collection. Please see our photos and good luck!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud