Persian Cz. Brno M.98/29 (1317) 8mm Mauser Bolt Action Rifle, 1938-39 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,025.00
LSB#: LSB260517LE016
Make: Ceskoslovenská Zbrojovka, a.s., Brno
Model: 1317, M98/29
Serial Number: R1924
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1938 – 1939 / C&R
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine.
Markings: The top of the receiver has the Persian crest. The left side has the import serial number, “R1924” and the corresponding Farsi numerals along with the Farsi Brno factory rollmark (Rifle Model 1317 Factory Arms-Maker Brno). The bolt and stock are matched to the receiver. There are various proofs throughout. The underside of the barrel has an import mark.
Barrel Length: 29”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a barleycorn blade post set atop a protective winged block. The rear sight is a v-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood stock has a nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the included cleaning rod, stacking ring, barrel band with sling loop, finger grooves, through bolt, sling loop, semi-pistol grip, sling loop, straight comb and a metal buttplate. There are moderate compression marks and scratches throughout the wood. There are no cracks, but there are a few chips. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates about Good + overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 9.5/10.
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 97% of its metal finish. There are light handling marks and spots of faint patina throughout. The action has faint wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Persian Model 98/29 is one of the most distinctive and highly regarded export Mauser rifles produced by Czechoslovakia during the interwar period. Iran adopted Brno-produced Mauser rifles as part of a broad military modernization program, and the long Model 98/29 combined the mature controlled-feed Mauser 98 action with a 29″ barrel, full-length military stock, and tangent rear sight graduated to 2,000 meters. The Persian Model 1317 designation corresponds to the Solar Hijri year 1317, approximately 1938-1939, placing this rifle near the end of the prewar Brno contract period. Its Persian crest, Farsi factory inscription, correct 7.92x57mm chambering, matching bolt and stock, and imposing long-rifle configuration give it considerable historical and collector interest. This rifle remains in Very Good to Excellent condition, retaining approximately 97% of its original blued finish. The metal surfaces show only light handling marks and scattered areas of faint patina, while operational wear is minimal. The screw heads remain sharp and the markings are clear. The bore is especially strong, remaining bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating 9.5/10 in this writer’s opinion. The full-length wood stock shows moderate compression marks and scratches along with a few small chips, but remains free of cracks and rates in Good Plus condition. The bolt and stock remain matched to the receiver, further enhancing the rifle’s originality. Mechanically, the action functions correctly.
For collectors of Mauser rifles and Persian military arms, the Brno Model 98/29 offers a particularly appealing combination of craftsmanship, historical significance, and visual presence. These rifles reflect both Czechoslovakia’s prominence as an exporter of high-quality military arms and Iran’s effort to equip its forces with a modern standardized service rifle. This example stands out for its high original finish retention, matching major components, excellent bore, intact Persian crest, and clear Farsi markings. With its elegant 29″ profile and strong overall preservation, it is a particularly attractive representative of the celebrated Persian-contract Brno Mausers. -R.E.