October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2018
This is a very rare and unique WWI Mauser single shot line throwing gun. There are only 2 examples currently known, both with minor differences. This one was built on a standard Mauser Oberndorf GEW98 rifle action, dated 1914. The receiver chamber markings were partially removed during the conversion. The stock and barrel/cup assembly were of new manufacture. Standard GEW98 triggerguard assembly with floorplate, however the follower was replaced with a block of wood for single shot use. The bolt release and screw, triggerguard screws and trigger retain the original fire blue, the rest of the parts appearing to have been finished in the white. The barrel/cup assembly measures 10 inches long. 2 inch bore diameter. These are believed to have been reworked into the current configuration at Mauser Werke-Koln/Ehrenfeld. While factory documentation on these items, or perhaps who did the conversion no longer exists, it has been surmised that these would have been used on U-Boats for firing lines of rope to ships similar to the Schumerly or Sandars line throwing guns. This particular item has "A. 196." in white paint on the bottom of the stock at the front. The end of the barrel is threaded, although the purpose for the threads has been lost to time. This gun features factory done 1 5/8" long by 3/4" high oval holes in the cup assembly. Of paramount importance, this item is accompanied by a letter from the NFA branch which specifically removes this gun by serial number from the provisions of the NFA. PROVENANCE: The Former Collection of Dr. Geoffrey Sturgess. CONDITION: Fine with minor staining on the "in the white" parts. Retains most of the original blue on noted small parts. Stock is very good with minor handling marks and dings, small crack between the "barrel" and front of the trigger guard assembly. Bore is fine. Fine mechanical function.