MAUSER C96 SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOL, ALSO KNOWN AS THE FAMED “BROOMHANDLE” MAUSER. This classic German manufactured pistol was the first successful semi-automatic handgun manufactured anywhere in the world. The first examples were produced in 1896 and it was in constant production until 1937. It found favor around the globe and was widely used in the Boer War, the Russo-Japanese war, World War I and even into World War II. Chambered for the 7.63 Mauser (.30 Mauser) pistol cartridge, it had a very high muzzle velocity that was not bested until the .357 magnum revolver cartridge was introduced in the mid-1930s. The Broomhandle Mauser was the choice of a young Winston Churchill who purchased one for his personal use before shipping out to partake in the Boer War in Africa. Because of its diabolical appearance, the Broomhandle Mauser frequently shows up in motion pictures...but always in the hands of the villainous bad-guys! This example shows an uncleaned patina with fine German receiver markings “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER OBERNDORF A. NECKAR.” Similar markings are on the top of the receiver ring ahead of the ejection/loading port. This is a ten shot pistol with standard 5 ½” barrel loaded by retracting the bolt which will hold open on an empty chamber allowing ten 7.63mm cartridges to be fed by a stripper clip into the box magazine ahead of the trigger guard. It retains the correct and original tangent rear sight that is graduated from 50 to 1000 meters. The back strap is cut for a wood shoulder stock/holster combination (these are widely reproduced today at very reasonable prices). Mechanically tight with walnut grips, this example shows serious use, but is not abused. The bore is worn, but the action and safety lever function correctly. Retains the original German inspection proof marks. This is the grandfather of just about all semi-auto pistols and exudes world-wide history. Serial Number: 315296. This firearm qualifies as a Curio & Relic Long Gun, and requires FFL Transfer or NICS Background Check. For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer’s responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.