Looking for some learned opinions...

[amadeus76]

So I’m considering picking up another Mauser. I’m considering both a Turkish M1903 Mauser and a Chilean Modelo M1912 Mauser. The M1903’s seem (from my research) to be a little rougher due to poor maintenance but be a little less expensive. The M1912’s seem to be considered better quality and have probably seen less hard use. I have zero experience with either. For those that do...

1) What are you opinions of each and what would you recommend going with?

2) What is a fair price for one in good condition with all matching numbers? Without matching numbers?

3) Would you recommend going with one over the other? Why?

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[Aragorn243]

I think you might have a bit of confusion over the 1903 Turk. They are actually pretty rare so one in any condition would be desirable. The 1903 is a 7mm Mauser. They are rare because the vast majority of them were converted to 8mm. These are generally called 03/38's which might be what you are thinking of. These are quite common and seems like the vast majority sell between $200-$300 these days due the the general lack of respect for the Turkish rifles. No idea on the original 7mm version due to never seeing them for sale. The 1912's on the other hand are considered to be one of the finest 98 style rifles made. Excellent quality and very smooth actions. They are also in 7mm I'm thinking these are generally in the $400-$500 range for good examples. Unless you're a guy like me that is seeking original rifles used by the major powers in WWI, there's no real reason to seek out a Turk 1903. If you want a shooter, the Chilean is much nicer, even than the 03/38. Depends at that stage whether you prefer 7mm or 8mm which is still available in surplus to a certain extent and whether you want to spend the extra cash. I have a Chilean 1912, beautiful rifle. I've been seeking a 1903 for about six years and never even seen one for sale only having heard of some rumors here and there.

[bob q]

Yes there seems to be some confusion on the Turk model 1903 . The Turks did not use 7x57mm in any service rifle . The Turk model 1903 was originally chambered in 7.65x53mm , later rebarreled to 8x57mm by the Turks . The m-1903 became the m-1904 export model . German made action with a new Czech 8mm barrel makes for a nice rifle . The m-1912 is also a nice rifle , it was made in 7x57mm . They can be found in very nice condition , but will bring a lot more .

[amadeus76]

I was referring to the re-chambered 8mm Turkish Mausers... In any event I found a really nice 1912 Chilean Mauser for a decent price, so I'm going with that one.

I still may look at a Turk Mauser in the future.

[Aragorn243]

Keep your eyes out for a cheap Turk. They are still out there. Hard to pass them up when they are in the $200 range. I don't think you'll regret the Chilean 1912.

Post photos when you can.

[mmppres]

Turks are very good shooters. an so is the chilean riles too. can not go wrong with either.