Model 1896 C96 Broomhandle 9mm Red Nine Semi-Auto Pistol & Stock
SOLD FOR: $1,975
WOA#: WY231211LJ002
Make: Mauser
Model: Model 1896 C96
Serial Number: 541109
Year of Manufacture: 1910, Pre War
Caliber: 9mm. Sleeved.
Action Type: Single Action Semi–Auto with Internal Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel flat is marked “541109”. The left shoulder is marked with a double crowned U. The top of the barrel is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”. The left side of the barrel extension is marked with two Chinese Characters. The left side of the frame is marked with a Mauser Banner. The right side of the frame is marked “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER / OBERNDORF A.NECKAR”. The top of the charging handle is marked “4839” with a double crowned U. The rear is marked “121178”. The hammer is marked “178”. The bottom of the barrel flat is marked with some proofs.
Barrel Length: 3.9”
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 “Red-Nine” grips. They do not fit flush with the frame and leave a gap at the top. There is some light handling wear. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Matte Blued
Finish Originality: Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. The barrel has been sleeved for 9mm.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 99% of its metal finish. There are some scuffs on the baseplate. There are some minor signs of erosion under the finish. The screw head is sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Excellent 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: This pistol comes with a wood stock/holster in Very Good. The stock is an aftermarket stock and is in Very Good condition.
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 and sleeved and given some grips made to look like Red Nine grips brings this pistol together to create a wonderful replica of the iconic Red Nine pistols. It has a strong Matte Blued finish and bright bore. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
