Post WWI Mauser C96 Bolo Broomhandle 7.63x25mm 3.9" Semi-Auto Pistol C&R

Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.

Final Auction Price: $1,276.00

This Mauser C96 “Bolo” is a post-World War I example of one of the most iconic semi-automatic pistols ever produced. Manufactured in the interwar period and chambered in 7.63x25mm, this short-barreled variant reflects Mauser’s continued production for export and military sales following the Great War. While showing significant wear consistent with age and use, it retains functional mechanics and remains an important historical representative of the C96 lineage.

Identification

MMA#: 251031JD001

Make: Waffenfabrik Mauser, Oberndorf

Model: C96, Postwar Bolo

Serial Number: 714786

Year of Manufacture: Circa 1923–1930 (C&R)

Caliber: 7.63x25mm

Action Type: Semi-automatic short-recoil pistol with internal magazine fed by stripper clips

Barrel Length: Approximately 3.9”

Sights / Optics

Front sight: fixed blade mounted to a boss at the muzzle.

Rear sight: V-notch tangent leaf graduated from 50 to 1000 meters in 50-meter increments, pinned to the barrel extension behind the ejection port.

Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition

Two-piece serrated wood grip panels with non-matching serial numbers. The left panel shows a notable gash near the bottom. Both panels exhibit nicks, scuffs, scratches, and worn serrations. No cracks are present. Overall grip condition: Good as non-original.

Finish & Overall Condition

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original; floorplate is non-matching, other numbered parts match

This pistol retains approximately 40% of its original finish. Most surfaces have transitioned to a dark patina with scattered erosion and pitting throughout. There are numerous nicks and scratches, operational wear, and lightly tool-marked screw heads. Most markings remain legible, though some smaller proofs are faint. Overall condition: Good.

Bore & Mechanics

Bore Condition: Dark with completely worn rifling and scattered erosion and pitting. Rated 0/10.

Mechanics: Action functions correctly on inspection. Not test-fired. Cleaning and inspection recommended prior to any use.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories

None.

Our Assessment

The Mauser C96 occupies a unique place in firearms history as one of the earliest successful semi-automatic pistols, developed by the Feederle brothers in the 1890s and produced by Mauser for more than four decades. Chambered most commonly in 7.63x25mm, the C96 was adopted or purchased by numerous nations and saw service through World War I and into the interwar years.

This example is a post-WWI “Bolo” variant, officially associated with the Model 1921 pattern. These pistols are characterized by their shorter barrels and reduced grip dimensions and are commonly linked to sales made to Bolshevik forces during the Russian Civil War, giving rise to the nickname “Bolo.” While the bore is heavily worn and overall condition reflects extensive use, the pistol retains functional mechanics and historical integrity. It would make an appropriate candidate for restoration or a representative example for a C96 or early semi-automatic pistol collection.

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