Persian Teheran Arsenal M.98/29 (1317) 8mm Mauser Bolt Action Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,000.00
LSB#: LSB251202KM022
Make: Teheran Arsenal, Persia. Built off Czech Machinery
Model: 1317, M98/29
Serial Number: P4385
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, “P4385” and the corresponding Farci numerals align with the Teheran factory rollmark. The bolt is matched to the receiver. The stock is serial matched to the receiver along with a rack mark, “10”. There are various proofs throughout. The underside of the barrel has an import mark. The bayonet is not serial matched to the rifle.
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 and 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, chips, and scratches throughout the wood. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Good + overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to Arsenal Refurbishment
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is faint 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 98% of its metal finish. There are light to moderate handling marks throughout. The action has moderate wear. There is light rust freckling throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good 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: Bayonet, leather sling.
Our Assessment: This Persian Teheran Arsenal M98/29 rifle is a striking example of interwar Mauser production manufactured circa 1938 to 1939 during Persia’s modernization efforts under Reza Shah. Built using Czech machinery and technical expertise, the M98/29 combined the proven Mauser 98 action with distinctive Persian markings and high production standards. The 29 inch barrel and full-length stock give the rifle an imposing profile consistent with European infantry doctrine of the period, while the Persian crest and Farsi script lend it a uniquely identifiable national character that sets it apart from other Mauser contract rifles. Chambered in 8mm Mauser, the rifle utilizes one of the most widely respected military cartridges of the early 20th century. The 7.92x57mm round was known for its strong ballistic performance and reliable service record across multiple continents. In the M98/29 platform, the cartridge benefits from the robust controlled-round-feed bolt system and five-round internal magazine that define the Mauser 98 action. The wing-protected barleycorn front sight and sliding rear sight graduated to 2000 meters reflect traditional Mauser sighting philosophy emphasizing durability and long-range capability.
Conditionally, this example presents in very good overall condition, retaining approximately 98 percent of its arsenal-refurbished blued finish with only light to moderate handling marks and faint rust freckling. The bore is exceptional, remaining bright with sharp rifling and only faint erosion, earning a strong 9.5 out of 10 rating. The refinished stock shows moderate compression marks and small chips consistent with service use but remains structurally sound and serial-matched to the receiver. The bolt is matched as well, further supporting its overall integrity. Taken together, this Teheran Arsenal M98/29 stands as a well-preserved and visually distinctive example of Persian Mauser production from the late 1930s, representing both Mauser engineering excellence and Middle Eastern military history. -R.E.