October 30 - November 2, 2018 Firearms, Militaria, & Sporting
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/30/2018
The Model 1908 Mondragon is a classic military firearm, the first semi-automatic rifle ever adopted by a major military. Designed in Mexico the rifle was built by Sig in Switzerland with most examples chambered in 7mm. In addition to Mexico the rifle was also used years later by the WWI German Observation Troops. Unlike most rifles, this mid-production example, previously written up as an experimental rifle, has been fitted with a larger than usual diameter barrel, tapering toward the front, that was machined with 17 - 1/2" of cooling fins. The last 5" of the barrel are round to which has been fitted and a more modern ramped front sight. Rear sight and handguard are absent. The gas port is solid without a cutoff. The bolt, missing the extractor, is fastened permanently to the operating rod that has been recontoured. Forward of the trigger guard is the usual safety. Magazine housing has been modified to include a spring loaded release, now secured with a cotter pin, to retain a recently made snail drum magazine, whose lips are distressed, closely modeled after the original and missing part of the foldable crank. The rust blued receiver, without crest, is numbered 1171 on the left side with the serial number repeated on the top of the bolt. The barrel, bolt, operating rod, and receiver cap are polished and in the white. Original walnut stock, missing barrel bands and associated spring, still with swivel at toe and accepted metal buttplate. CONDITION: Receiver with 90% of refurbished blue. Parts in the white near excellent with staining and scattered flecks of oxidation. Stock is very good with numerous dings and areas of discoloration. Repainted, reproduction snail drum magazine with most of its black paint. Action is sluggish with bolt needing some assistance to fully close. Manual safety functions properly. Bright bore with strong rifling. Magazine should be considered as a cosmetic but nonfunctional accessory. NOTE: It should be noted that while researching this rifle we came across another Mondragon that shared an identical serial number.
Manufacturer
Schweizerische Industrie Gesellschaft