Colombian Mausers

[Digger]

I'm looking for some info and advice about Colombian FN Mausers in 30-06. From what I've read some were converted and others were made in this calibre. Any info appreciated, quality, accuracy etc. I'd like to find a Model 1950 Short Rifle or a 24/30 Carbine. If you have pics of your Colombian Mausers please share.

Information

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[Calif-Steve]

My Colombian Mauser came fro S&D Bookstore in 1965(?). They hand selected a nice looking Mauser. The rifle was a ton of trouble. The rifle had a re-bored barrel and the chamber was off-center. I had to replace the barrel. I had a gunsmith off-post at Fort Lewis,WA do the work. He drilled and tapped the receiver (off-center) and turned down the bolt(too short). I was a young Army officer and could hardly afford beans, much less a poor gunsmith. I am not too sure the Colombians did good woirk. Do be careful.

[Digger]

That's not too encouraging. Anyone else have any experience with these? I figured they would be really good quality (if found in decent condition) because they were made by FN. The Model 1950 especially, which was built at the factory in 30-06, should be really nice. I've also read that some of the conversions have Springfield 1903A3 barrels. Not sure if that is true or not.

At any rate, info on the web is limited at best.

[Calif-Steve]

I have a Chilean 7.62mm that certainly has a 2 groove 03-A3 barrel on it. I have seen many Colombian Mausers and all appeared to be conversions. I am sure there are nice FN made Mauser floating around, but they can not be common. Also, most have bad bores and the exteriors look bad (rust) as well. For the money, it is hard to beat a mint Yugo 8mm Mauser. They run well. By the way-There is a huge pile of 7mm Mausers in Uruguay that the Uruguaian's are trying to sell off. They will have keepers in that deal, for sure.

[Gib]

I have an FN Columbian model 1950. It was made by FN and of course chambered in 30-06. It works and shoots very well. The bore is not mint but it's not pitted either and the rifling is good. I shoot it in vintage matches and the action is very smooth. I can't post any photos right now because I don't have access to a camera but overall condition of the rifle is very good. It's one of my favorite Mausers.

Gib

[frankderrico]

Digger, I have one and will post some pics as soon as my photo bucket comes up. I bought mine in '67 for $25.00 at a department store in the Chicago subs. It was somewhat sporterized to make it look like a hunting rifle. Last winter I restored it to military. It never shot well as a hunting rifle but is a great shooter now. The full length sock and barrel bands hold the barrel tight to the stock the way it was designd.

[frankderrico]

Digger, here are some pics.....Frank

[Digger]

Thanks Frank. Interesting cartouche on the buttstock, is that a Colombian marking? I just purchased a Model 1950 and will share some pics when I receive it.

[frankderrico]

Digger, sorry about getting back to you late on the "cartouche". I don't think it is Columbian, It seems to be branded in. The thought was it might be a unit marking. If anybody knows please let us know. The stock was so dirty and oiled that I didn't see the mark untill I cleaned it. The rifle was my first, back in '67, it had what was called a "Japaned" finish, witch was black laquered on all but the bolt. I had to start the strip down with paint remover. Under the wood it was still blued but the rest of the finish was gone. Good luck on your now rifle, post some pics.....Frank

[Digger]

Sorry it took so long to get these posted. I tried to take some pics of features that are unique to the FN M1950 Short Rifle AFAIK. The butt plate for example is very distinct and the cleaning rod is in the white. The sling is a 1950's export to South American type and is correct for this rifle. It needed a major cleaning when I got it but overall it's in VG+ condition.