SOLD - Rast & Gasser Model 1898 Revolver Rig

Description

6/23/22 - The Rast & Gasser Model 1898 was a service revolver used by the Austro-Hungarian Army during World War I and various armies in World War II. 180,000 copies were produced by the firm Leopold Gasser Waffenfabrik in Vienna from 1898 to 1912. Prior to the outbreak of the First World War, the M1898 was planned to be replaced in the Austro-Hungarian cavalry with the Roth–Steyr M1907, and in the infantry with the Steyr M1912. However production of newer pistols was insufficient and the weapon remained in service. It was specially-issued to NCOs, officers, and also as a secondary weapons for machine-gunners. In some armies it was used up through the Second World War, including Italy and Yugoslavia. The manufacturing quality and the strength of the solid-frame design made it a reliable and consistent military weapon. This one is all matching, has Austrian proofs, and is dated 1915. It comes as a rig with a very nice canvas holster. There is an illegible ink stamp on the inside of the top flap. The gun has retained about 85% of its original finish. There is noticeable finish loss on the underside of the trigger guard, some minor thinning and spotty oxidation on the left side of the frame, and some spotty wear along the barrel. There are what appear to be small machine marks on the right side of the barrel. Comes with slightly worn wood grips. The bore has decent rifling, but there is minor pitting throughout.