Quote Originally Posted by paulm View Post
Ok everyone I now have the straight story.
Well it's not quite perfectly straight Paulm, but you have made the first important step: realizing that there is something to be learnt. And for this purpose, there are 2 absolutely first-class books to get you started in "Mauserology".

"Mauser Bolt Rifles" by Ludwig Olson, Brownell & Son
and
"Mauser Military Rifles of the World" by Robert Bal, Krause Publications.

And take the opportunity to handle as many genuine rifles as you can. With some basic knowledge and hands-on experience you will soon find yourself laughing at a lot of online auctions.

Patrick