Boer War OVS model Mauser 1896 (N25) REDUCED FROM £825

Mauser 1896, scarce OVS direct contract early 803 serial  number. The model 1896 was the rifle manufactured for the Boer states by Germany prior to and during the Boer war, it was derived from the earlier 1893/95 which was in turn a slightly modified version of the 1893, often referred to as the 1895.

Most of the rifles supplied to the Boers by Ludwig Loewe/Mauser were sent to the Transvaal but significant numbers were ordered by the Orange Vrij Stadt (Orange Free State=OVS) when it became clear that war was coming. This rifle was one of those and therefore does not feature in the serial number/contract date listing references we have for the Transvaal.

The rifle is clearly marked OVS under the receiver serial number and on the wood. It is very unusual to find matching numbers but on this example the stock, barrel, bolt, receiver, trigger guard and mag bottom plate are matching numbers (!) with OVS above the receiver and stock numbers. Ludwig Loewe crest on top of receiver. This rifle has a lot of dinks and dents from much use and conflict. It retains about 90% finish to metal.  

Without doubt this is the most original Boer M1896 we have ever had, in fact it's so good if it doesn't sell quickly I may well add it to my collection.

This rifle comes from a small stock that were captured during the Boer war and released by the WD after WW1.

Deactivated to Euro 2018 Spec, comes with Birmingham Proofhouse Certificate.

Photo shows actual item