C96 scrubbed, except for serial numbers - any ideas?

[spinecracker]

Came across this strange little beast today - C96, presumably a post 1920 rework, scrubbed of all markings, except for the serial numbers (matching, as far as I can tell). Anyone able to shed light on what this actually is (possible foreign copy)?

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[browningautorifle]

VERY heavily polished before the re-bluing. That's where all your markings went. Looks like it was rough shape before hand.

[Patrick Chadwick]

"Looks like it was rough shape before hand."

Indeed. Look at the pitting in the bore. Outside, it will have been far worse. So quite possibly, some of the numbers have been "refreshed!

[rayg]

Probably one of the heavy used and abused,(lack of proper care and cleaning), Chinese imports from about 20 yrs ago. Ray

[Paul S.]

Yep, it is one of the very badly abused and worn PRC C96s imported into the US in the late 1980s and early 1990s (if memory serves). They were thoroughly buffed and re-blued by the importers to disguise their rather pathetic state and make them sellable. I believe Navy Arms Co. was involved as the importer or as a distributor.

[Bruce McAskill]

Yup and the worst in shape ones bore wise were bored out to 9 mm. Others had their bores enlarged and a liner put in in 7.63 mm. Those that that not get the royal treatment were just sold off at the end. It seems that most of the 9mm and lined guns I have seen, seem to have been the 5" full size C96 while most of the Bolo's were just sold as is.

[browningautorifle]

I was thinking this one would be a good candidate for a liner...

[DocAV]

Yes, Federal Arms CO (Cali) Imports from Chinese (PRC) PSB ( Public Security Bureau, or National Police). Avoided US GCA 68 Embargo on "Military Weapons". So Called "Bolo" Model ( different grip shape). Numbers restamped in typical Chinese Font stamps, scrubbing done either in China or in USA.

Some were drilled and re-rifled to 9mm Para, others were sleeved back to 7,63 Mauser, because of ratty sewer-pipe Barrels. Over all, a cheap and Nasty (But usually fireable) end for a C96. No way of knowing when it was made (original serial gone). Some are so worn internally that they will "double" or "triple" tap ( Not good if the AFTE is around....).

Doc AV