Mauser Model 1871/84 (11x60R) Bolt Action 11 mm Rifle

This is an Imperial German, 1888 dated1, 11mm (11 x 60R) Mauser Model 1871/84 rifle. The rifle was developed from the single shot model 1871 rifle which was improved and modified into a repeating rifle with a the insertion of a tubular magazine enclosed within the fore end to hold 8 rounds of ammunition that was similar to the Swiss Vettrli rifles of the period. This gun was the first magazine fed gun in the German army. The design of the rifle, introduced into service in 1884 was quickly superseded by the invention of smokeless powder as a propellant which was vastly superior to the older black powders used on the Mauser M1871/84 and similar rifles. The Mauser Gewehr 1888 quickly superseded the M1871/84 in the German army and gun was regulated to secondary use including use in the First World War. This rifle was made at the Imperial Spandau armoury which is stamped on the barrel together with various proof marks and the serial number 1440 which is repeated on the receiver. The side of the receiver is stamped I.G.Mod 71/84 on one side and 1888 (manufacturing date) on the other side. The rifles barrel and actin retains most of its original blued finish. The barrel’s rifling has staining & residue consistent with age & use. The gun has a full length tube magazine, steel butt plate, blade foresight & adjustable rear sight. The weapon’s cocking & firing mechanism work correctly. The rifle has the usual bumps and bruises with service use. The rifle has its original Proof Exemption Certificate dated 29/5/2002. The bayonet for this rifle is listed separately on our web site. NB. As an obsolete calibre weapon, no licence is required to own this item in the UK if retained as part of a collection or display. Sn 21393:32