Turkish Mauser Model 1887 9.5×60R 30” Bolt Action Rifle, 1887-1889 Antique
SOLD FOR: $3,625.00
LSB#: LSB250520NW001
Make: Mauser
Model: Model 1887
Serial Number: 198756
Year of Manufacture: 1887-1889 Antique
Caliber/Gauge: 9.5×60R
Action Type: Bolt action
Markings: Except for bolt numbers, the rifle is completely marked in Turkish. The Turkish reads “Waffenfabrik Mauser Oberndorf a/Neckar-Deutche Riech”, (Mauser Factory Oberndorf, Germany). The name “W. MILLER” is inscribed on the left side of the stock.
Barrel Length: 30”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a barleycorn sight on a raised block. The rear sight is a ladder sight with a V notch.
Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece wood set with a full-length military forearm, straight wrist, and steel buttplate. The handguard is secured with two barrel bands. The stock shows moderate handling wear, scattered dents, bruises, and storage marks consistent with its age. There are no visible cracks, but there is a small chip on the right side just below the action. The stock rates in about Good 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, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about none of its original metal finish and now is mostly patina. The balance of finish shows moderate wear expected from handling and storage throughout the years with scratches, blemishes, and other normal wear. The screw heads are sharp with turnable slots. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action and safety function correctly. The magazine disconnect functions correctly. The follower in the magazine tube is missing. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather sling
Our Assessment: This Turkish Mauser Model 1887 was one of the earliest military bolt-action rifles produced by Mauser for export, and it represents the first Mauser design adopted by the Ottoman Empire. Chambered in the now-obsolete 9.5×60mmR black powder cartridge. These rifles were manufactured in limited numbers between 1887 and 1889 and issued to elite units of the Ottoman military. It is notable as one of the last black powder rifles fielded just before the full transition to smokeless powder arms.
This example retains its original military configuration, Ottoman markings, and 30″ barrel. Though worn and aged, it remains almost complete and mechanically functional. For collectors of Ottoman, Mauser, or early bolt-action military rifles, this is a significant and increasingly scarce piece of arms history. Be sure to check our detailed pictures for a better understanding of the firearm. -C.R.
