Mauser Post-War Bolo C96 Broomhandle 7.63x25mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,000.00
LSB#: WY241219BS019
Make: Waffenfabrik Mauser Oberndorf A/N
Model: 1896 Early Post-War Bolo
Serial Number: 470943
Year of Manufacture: About 1921-1923
Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser
Action Type: Single Action Semi –Auto with Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel chamber is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left shoulder with a double crowned “U” and the left with “470943”. The top rear of the bolt is marked with a double crowned “U”. All serialized parts are matched to the receiver including the internals. The right side of the frame is marked, “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER OBERNDORF A.NECKAR”.
Barrel Length: 5.5”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notched rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-500” 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 walnut panels. The grips show minor handling wear with only a few small marks and well defined serrations. There are no chips or cracks. The lanyard ring is missing. Overall, the grips are about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is faint erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9.5/10
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its current metal finish. There are faint handling marks throughout. The action shows operational wear. The screw head is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Excellent condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: Reproduction wood holster with leather scabbard.
Our Assessment: The 1896 Broomhandle, one of the earliest semi-automatic pistols, is as fascinating as it is influential in the world of firearms. This iconic pistol was first manufactured by the German arms company Mauser in 1896 and quickly garnered attention for its unique design and mechanical innovation. The C96 Broomhandle, named for its distinctive grip resembling the handle of a broom, was revolutionary in several aspects. It was one of the first semi-automatic pistols to enjoy widespread use and featured a distinctive integral box magazine in front of the trigger, unusual in an era dominated by revolver handguns. This pistol was typically chambered in 7.63x25mm Mauser, a powerful cartridge for its size, which contributed to its popularity. The C96 was not officially adopted by any major nation’s military but was used extensively by soldiers and officers in various conflicts around the world, including World War I and World War II. It gained a reputation for reliability and high build quality. The C96 also saw popularity among civilian users and became an iconic weapon in revolutionary movements, notably used by figures such as Winston Churchill and T.E. Lawrence.
Over its production life, the C96 Broomhandle underwent various modifications and was produced in different configurations and calibers, including a select-fire version with a detachable magazine. Its design influenced many later pistol designs and marked an important step in the evolution of semi-automatic handguns.
Today, the C96 Broomhandle holds a special place in firearm history. Its distinctive appearance and historical significance make it a coveted item among collectors and firearms enthusiasts, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the development of modern handguns. This C96 Bolo will make a great addition to any historical collection. -R.E.
