On November 3, 1893 Sweden adopted the 6.5x55mm cartridge. Following this, the Swedes chose the Mauser design based rifle to shoot this round. The Swedish Mauser was manufactured relatively unchanged from 1896 to 1938. The Swedes were way ahead of the curve on using smaller caliber cartridges for military rounds, adopting the 6.5x55mm round in 1893, way before the introduction of the 5.56 NATO and other small caliber rounds around 70 years later.
Designated the Swedish m/96 Rifle or known as it is by collectors - the "Swedish Mauser", this Mauser is one of the most sought after by shooters.
Swedish Steel is a term used when referring to the steel used by the Swedish and Mauser manufacturing facilities to make the m96 rifles. The Swedes felt that their steel was far superior to all others. When Mauser was contracted to make Swedish Mausers in Germany - they were required to use Swedish Steel in the manufacturing process.
Brass disks were installed on the right side of the rifle's stock after the adoption of the m/94/41, 6.5x55mm cartridge in 1941. The disk is divided into three sections. The largest wedge represents the level of bore erosion. The second largest wedge, with words, told the shooter how much to adjust hold over for the new m/94/41 cartridge. The rifles were originally sighted for the m/94 cartridge. Notice the smallest wedge on the disk with a number 1 in the narrowest part of the wedge and the numbers 2 and 3 in the widest part of the wedge.
The number in the smallest part of the wedge is the condition of the bore:
0 means the bore is almost new;
1 means the bore is only slightly worn (this rifle);
2 means the bore is moderately worn;
3 means the rifle bore is serviceable;
4 means the barrel should be replaced.
This Swedish Mauser is in my belief to be one of the finest examples of the Mauser rifle. The level of craftsmanship and detail is incredible. If you have ever have an opportunity to purchase one - DO!
