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05-03-2007 03:25 PM
# ADS
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Advisory Panel
The 96 is, of course, the long rifle. The first short versions were, as you pointed out, shortened M96s. Early 96s were made by Mauser in Germany, most by Carl Gustav State Rifle Factory in Sweden. Original short rifles were made by Husqvarna. Husqvarna also made some M96 pattern rifles, but these are uncommon. The Swedish Mausers were imported in rather large numbers. They are not rare. Many are in fine condition, others were used more. These rifles were also shot more than many other military rifles; there are ones with bores worn from shooting. Some 96s were retained to the end for target shooting. The Swedish Mausers tend to be accurate, some exceptionally so. M96s have more serial numbered parts than Hva 38s. Personally, I would wait for a fine specimen, with matching numbers. The Swedes do seem to be priced in the $275-$300 range. I would be inclined to pay a bit more for a premium specimen.
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What tiriaq said. Also, M38's and M96's with all matching numbers are the normal. Don't buy one with any mismatched numbers if you intend to collect it. The exception is M96/38 conversions. Sometimes a small part or two is normally mismatched on these as they are all refurbs. Most common m/m part on a 96/38 is the rear sight leaf as most were swapped out for one with an adjustble insert. Sometimes a non-original sight leaf was put back one when the insert was installed.
Союз нерушимый республик свободных Сплотила навеки Великая Русь. Да здравствует созданный волей народов Единый, могучий Советский Союз!
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Moderator
(Edged Weapons Forum)
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Given what I know about Inuit hunters, I suspect those few hundred rifles saw HARD use and ended their lives rusty, dirty, and worn
Союз нерушимый республик свободных Сплотила навеки Великая Русь. Да здравствует созданный волей народов Единый, могучий Советский Союз!
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Advisory Panel
You bet. It is unlikely that any are still in use. They were very popular for hunting marine mammals with the issue ball. Salt water/spray plus limited care = shoprt useful life. Had one come into the shop rusted to the point that it couldn't be opened. When I got it open I was not pleased to see that it was loaded.
I sold 62 of the brand new Polish M44s. They will have met the same fate.
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