Mauser Model 1930 M30 C96 Broomhandle 7.63x25mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1225
LSB#: 210423DW20
Make: Mauser
Model: 1930
Serial Number: 888681
Year of Manufacture: Ca. 1932-1934
Caliber: 7.63x25mm (.30 Mauser)
Action Type: Single Action Semi–Auto with Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel at the chamber is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left shoulder with with a crowned “U”, the left side “888681”. The right side of the frame is marked “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A NECKAR / D.R.P.u.A.P.”, the left has a Mauser banner logo and at the magazine well there are three Chinese characters, two of which appear to translate to “Germany”. The flat on the underside of the barrel has inspection marks. The top of the lock-frame is marked “8681”. The magazine floorplate is marked “9615” on the inside.
Barrel Length: 5 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notch 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 barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated wood panels. The grips have some wear around the grip screw escutcheons and some scattered nicks and scratches. The serrations are well defined. There are no chips or cracks. The grip screw is seized in the left panel’s escutcheon, the escutcheon turns with the screw. Overall, the grips are in about Good-Very Good condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued & Some Parts Polished Bright
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is worn, but visible. There is scattered light-moderate erosion in the bore, more notable in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its current metal finish. There are a few scattered minor marks and minor operational wear. There is scattered light erosion under the finish with more notable erosion under the grips and on the top face of the frame. The screw head is tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are generally clear, the last Character on the magazine well is shallow and incomplete. Overall, this pistol is in about Good-Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The barrel extension has minor play to the frame. 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 wood stock/holster. The holster has scattered light wear. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock/holster is in about Very Good-plus condition as refinished and/or reproduction. Please note, the holster should only be used as a stock in compliance with the law.
Our Assessment: The Broomhandle Model 1896 Mauser is certainly an interesting looking firearm, and this is a fairly late-production Model 1930, an updated design of the original C96 made in the inter-war years. Chambered for .30 Mauser, this would be a good candidate for restoration if you’re looking for a shooter and with its new finish, it looks quite good for display. The frame has Chinese characters which likely indicate this was purchased and exported to China. For those collecting Chinese pistols from the inter-war years, this could also be a nice addition to a collection. Please see our photos and good luck!