Mauser Reichsrevolver M1879 10.6x25mmR 7” Revolver w/ Holster Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,182.00
LSB#: LSB250622BR029
Make: Gebr. Mauser & Cie., Oberndorf
Model: Reichsrevolver M1879
Serial Number: 1016
Year of Manufacture: 1880 frame date, accepted 1881 (Antique)
Caliber: 10.6x25mmR German Ordnance
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading Gate and Manual Ejector Rod
Barrel Length: 7” Cannon Profile
Markings:
The left side of the frame is marked “GEBR. MAUSER & CIE. 1880 OBERNDORF” inside an oval. The left side of the frame is marked “1881”. The barrel, frame, and cylinder are each marked “1016”. The left flat of the barrel is marked with a crowned proof and “1016”. The bottom of the grip frame is WWI unit marked “19.A.1.4” (19th Artillery Regiment, 1st Battery, weapon number 4).
Barrel Condition:
The bore is semi-bright, the rifling is defined. There is light erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.
Sights / Optics:
The front sight is a fixed blade integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a notch cut into the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
The grips are smooth walnut. They show handling marks, dings, and scattered wear. There are no cracks or major chips. The grips rate in about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, worn to a gray and dark brown patina.
Finish Originality: Original
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The revolver locks up tight with little play. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories:
This revolver comes with a period brown leather flap holster. The inside of the flap is faintly stamped with a crown cartouche and dated “1916”. The holster has dual belt loops on the back. Stitching is intact, though worn, and the leather shows scuffs and wear consistent with age.
Our Assessment:
The Mauser Reichsrevolver M1879 was the German military’s standard issue sidearm from the late 1870s through the 1890s, serving in colonial conflicts, the Franco-Prussian War’s aftermath, and even carried into World War I despite its obsolescence. These revolvers were chambered for the 10.6mm German Ordnance cartridge and built with a solid, overbuilt design—simple, rugged, and reliable, if not exactly cutting-edge when compared to contemporary double-action revolvers or even the single-action ones for that matter.
This example was produced by Gebr. Mauser & Cie. at Oberndorf in 1880 and accepted into service in 1881, as indicated by its markings. The serial numbers are all matching, a strong plus for collectors. Most importantly, the grip frame is unit-marked to the WWI 19th Artillery Regiment, 1st Battery, weapon number 4, which provides a tangible connection to the regiment that once fielded this revolver. Unit markings are always desirable, as they narrow provenance from the general German army down to a specific unit, increasing intrigue and encouraging research.
Adding to its appeal, the revolver is accompanied by its original holster, dated 1916, showing this sidearm remained in service well into the First World War when Germany faced chronic shortages of modern pistols. The combination of matching numbers, regimental markings, and an original 1916 holster makes this a particularly desirable set for collectors of German military arms. This Reichsrevolver would make an excellent addition to any advanced collection of European military sidearms. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to look at the item’s condition in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid.
