Here's a great example of a fairly rare gun. The C96 is considered by many to be the first commercially successful semi-automatic pistol. Adopted by the German military in 1896, the "Broomhandle Mauser" has gained a reputation for being reliable, powerful, and accurate thanks to a propriety 7.63 cartridge. The pistol served faithfully during the Great War, and found popularity as an "intermediate carbine" due to the wooden holster that was issued with the pistol; which doubled as a detachable butt stock that allowed for precision shooting at longer rangers. The C96 found fame on the civilian market as well as it was featured in a number of Hollywood movies; the most famous of these being STAR WARS in which an a real Mauser C96 was used as the basis for Han Solo's famous "blaster".
This particular C96 is known as a "Bolo" variant: following the Great War, Germany was stuck with most of the blame and severe limitations on military production by the Treaty of Versailles. Mauser managed some sales, including continuing the C96 line. The so-called Bolo model was sold to Bolshevik Russia in 1921 and this variant comprised over a third of the C96’s made. To be compliant with the Versailles Treaty, Mauser produced the C96 with shorter 3.9" barrels and smaller grips, which had the unintended consequence of making them easier to conceal. This variant’s popularity with the Bolsheviks is said to be the reason for the “Bolo” moniker. This Bolo C96 is in excellent condition and features some professional restoration work by Lugerman LLC in Langhorne, PA.
Externally, this pistol features much of its original blued finish; particularly in the protected areas. All the serial numbers match and the grips are very good with no cracks, chips or other damage. The barrel is full length and both the front and rear sights are intact and unmodified. The bore is very good, having been professionally relined by Lugerman. As such, the bore is excellent with sharp rifling and no rust or pitting. Like most of the Mauser-made guns, this C96 is chambered for the venerable 7.63 Mauser cartridge.
The action functions flawlessly, as the previous owner reported that upgraded springs were installed as part of Lugerman's restoration service. This gun is a both a collector's item AND a shooter!
As an added bonus this Mauser C96 features a reproduction wooden holster stock and leather harness, as well as an original leather holster. The gun fits neatly in the holster and locks up nicely with minimal "wiggle" when used as a stock.
*This weapon was made after 1899 and MUST be shipped to Federal Firearms License holder for transfer. Never bought a gun through an FFL before? Give us a call at (262) 473-5444 and we'd be glad to walk you through this simple process
