Model 1896 C96 Broomhandle .30 Mauser 7.63x25mm Semi-Auto Pistol Nickel
SOLD FOR: $1,375
WOA#: WY231009TP001
Make: Mauser
Model: Model 1896 C96
Serial Number: 76854
Year of Manufacture: 1905, Pre War
Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser (.30 Mauser Automatic)
Action Type: Single Action Semi–Auto with Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel shoulder is marked “76854”. The left side of the barrel flat is marked with a double crowned U. The top of the barrel flat is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”. The left side of the flat next to the crowned U is marked “GERMANY” very faintly. The right side of the frame is marked “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A.NECKAR”. The top of the charging handle is marked “6854” with a double crowned U. The hammer is marked “649”. The rear is marked “117649”. The floor plate is marked “004”. The bottom of the barrel flat has a few proof marks.
Barrel Length: 5 1/2”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notch rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-1000” that is pinned to the barrel extension. The front sight is an inverted “V” notch integral to a rectangular base fixed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece walnut panels with coarse serrations. The grips have a couple of light nicks toward the bottom. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grip screw is too long and protrudes through the right grip. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling defined though worn. There is mild erosion throughout.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 80% of its metal finish. There is some corrosion on the barrel as well as some spots of oxidation on the frame. The baseplate of the magazine has some corrosion. The screw head is sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Good condition as refurbished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 Pre War production C96 refurbished at some point with a strong Nickel finish would make a great historical piece to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
