Mauser Post-War Bolo C96 Broomhandle 7.63x25mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $904
WOA#: WY231211LJ001
Make: Mauser
Model: 1896 Post-War Bolo
Serial Number: 602379
Year of Manufacture: About 1922-1923
Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser
Action Type: Single Action Semi –Auto with Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel chamber is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left shoulder with a double crowned “U” and the left with “602379”. The top rear of the bolt is marked with a double crowned “U” and “9123”. The bottom of the rear sight arm is marked “685”. The magazine floorplate is marked “8194”. The right side of the frame is marked “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A. NECKAR”, the rear of the frame is marked “636105” and the left has a Mauser banner logo. The top of the frame in front of the magwell is marked “4”. The bottom of the barrel has a “CAI ST ALB VT 7.63 GERMANY” import mark.
Barrel Length: 3.9”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notched rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-1000” that is pinned to the barrel extension. The front sight is a blade fixed to the front of the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated walnut panels. The grips show minor handling wear with only a few small marks and well defined serrations. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to refinished. The parts are mix matched.
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. The rifling is completely worn away from erosion.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 30% of its current metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges as well as a deep patina throughout. There is some scattered minor oxidation and infrequent patches of light surface erosion. The sides of the grip frame have more notable erosion and pitting which is mostly concealed by the grips when installed. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches with a patch of wear on the front of the magazine well. The action shows operational wear. The screw head is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are generally clear, some are worn, but legible. Overall, this pistol is in about Poor condition. The trigger and safety do not engage at all.
Mechanics: The trigger and safety do not engage at all. The hammer is locked in the cocked position. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The 1896 Broomhandle, one of the earliest semi-automatic pistols, is as fascinating as it is influential in the world of firearms. This iconic pistol was first manufactured by the German arms company Mauser in 1896 and quickly garnered attention for its unique design and mechanical innovation.
The C96 Broomhandle, named for its distinctive grip resembling the handle of a broom, was revolutionary in several aspects. It was one of the first semi-automatic pistols to enjoy widespread use and featured a distinctive integral box magazine in front of the trigger, unusual in an era dominated by revolver handguns. This pistol was typically chambered in 7.63x25mm Mauser, a powerful cartridge for its size, which contributed to its popularity.
The C96 was not officially adopted by any major nation’s military but was used extensively by soldiers and officers in various conflicts around the world, including World War I and World War II. It gained a reputation for reliability and high build quality. The C96 also saw popularity among civilian users and became an iconic weapon in revolutionary movements, notably used by figures such as Winston Churchill and T.E. Lawrence.
Over its production life, the C96 Broomhandle underwent various modifications and was produced in different configurations and calibers, including a select-fire version with a detachable magazine. Its design influenced many later pistol designs and marked an important step in the evolution of semi-automatic handguns.
Today, the C96 Broomhandle holds a special place in firearm history. Its distinctive appearance and historical significance make it a coveted item among collectors and firearms enthusiasts, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the development of modern handguns. This C96 Bolo will make a great addition to any historical collection. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
