[coneten]

It has the Lange Vizier rear sight but I see no German markings..there are Belgian proofs and B.BLINDEE on left side of barrel shank. There is a small notch milled out of receiver to accommodate a longer cartridge. The front band/bayo lug is H cut. The top of receiver appeared to be scrubbed. I might go back for a second look.

 

[mauserdad]

If it is not a lot of money I would suggest you get it. Took me a while to find one. Bought it off a fellow collector in Calif.. My understanding the one I have was from Columbia. I kind of question that because the rifle is in 8mm and the Columbians used 7mm. I heard they also went to China. Here is mine. Ed.

 

[DocAV]

Belgium, after W W I, received as Reparations, Thousands of Gew98s, which were refurbished and then put "in trade"...they were Re-proofed (Belgian Proof Marks) and the Mark "Balle Blindee"(Jacketed (ie, FMJ) bullet) applied. Usually most of the original German marks had been obliterated. Many went to China, in the 1920s. I have three "B.Blindee" Gewehrs, from China.

THe "FORUM 1932" marked Gew98s were sold to Colombia; I don't have the confirmation, but they turned up with other Colombian Mausers back in the early 60s (Interarms). Info on these Partiucular rifles is very scarce, even the meaning of "Forum" ( a Political organisation outside of the "Fuerzas Armadas de Colombia" ?)

Regards,
Doc AV

 

[nothernug]

Thanks Doc. I've never heard of these. You know John, there's something curious about yours, at least to my ignorant eye. I was looking these up for more info and saw several "B.Blindee" stamped rifles, (and two others like yours said to be Colombian). But, all others I saw images of, the Blindee stamps were deep, clear and even. Yours looks to wander and wobble across that receiver, maybe as if stamped one letter at as time. Also, whats with the polished steel? (Or so it looks to me )

 

[mauserdad]

Sir,cant answer for the stampings or the finish on the metal. Thats the way I got it from the gent in Calif.. Could be the die for the BLINDEE moved or was not centered when it was stamped. It would be interesting to see others.The one in Mr. Balls book page 105 4th ed. is mine and that is the Gent I bought it from. The entire rifles exposed metal has been polished not chromed or nickled. Leads me to believe it was a ceremonial rifle. HTH. Ed

Just took a better look at mine. There is a large Columbian crest stamped in the wood of the butt stock on the rear left side. Ed

 

[nothernug]

Hey Ed! What's with the "Sir"?! It's just me. Nug! Jim!! I ain't no "Sir"! No order of Knighthood here! Just an old, blind, lame, East Texas fat man.

 

[mauserdad]

Jim,just my Southern upbringing. I try to respect people and there knowldge. Your description sounds like me except I am in North Florida. Have you heard from Branko lately? I hope he is doing OK. Last time I talked to him he was putting out a book on bayonets and swords. Have a good day. Ed