Description
02/16/26 - This is a unusual Mauser C96 “Bolo” pistol, manufactured in 1905. This C96 was part of Mauser's early Bolo experiment, which started during large ring production and continued into early small ring production. The serial number of this examples, 42818, is within the known range for these early Bolos (40,000 to 43,0000). This C96 bears two intriguing markings, but lacking further records and/or other known examples, attribution for either remains speculative. On the left side of the frame, “S.V.C.H.” is finely engraved in a decorative panel. Meanwhile, the backstrap is stamped “A 47 MMR”, appearing to follow a British/Commonwealth pattern of letter-number unit codes, though the specifics of this unit are shrouded in mystery. All matching, with proper "Double Crown U" proof stamps. This pistol retains about 93% of its original blued finish, with honest wear from use and age. Finish loss is visible around the muzzle, along the high edges of the barrel extension, and on the left and right sides of the magazine well. There is scattered freckling and surface oxidation throughout most of the metal, including the frame flats/panels, the rear sight base, and the underside of the trigger guard. Bore is excellent, shiny with strong rifling, and just minor signs of use. Fitted with excellent set of matching-numbered black grips which are beautifully checkered, early examples made of hard rubber, scarce and correct (walnut is far more common, even on these ealy Bolos). By contrast, postwar Bolo grip panels should always be walnut, with exactly 22 lines.
