Czech proof mark.

 

Not so. The Czechoslovak proof mark is a small lion rampant guardant, or the letter "V" on pre-1923 firearms.

See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lion_Rampant_Guardant.svg

The Z-in-a-circle mark is the factory and corporate trademark of the firm known as Ceskoslovenska Zbrojovka Brno (Czechoslovakian Armory at Brno). The letter "Z" stands for Zbrojovka, or "Armory", and is found on many if not most firearms made at Brno. As a trademark, it is the Czechoslovak equivilant of the Mauser banner.

As a small parts mark, it may well also be a quality inspection approval mark.
Regards,
John

 

The Circle Z mark is Diagnostic for Ceskoslovenska Zbrojovka Brno products, including Spare parts, and from 1936 to 1940, also (as "Z", the ammo headstamp on cartridges made at Bratislava ( ex-Jiri Roth Plant) and then for "Export" ammo from Povaske Bystrica, (Slovakia) when the Bratislava Factory was shifted there during the German Occupation.

Note: The Circle Z mark is ALSO used as a refurbishment mark on Polish SEPEWE Surplus Scrubbed Mausers, sold to Spain in the SCW (Wz29, and K98 --Polish version of German Kar98a). Just to confuse collectors...Polish Wz29s look a lot like Czech Vz24. (except for Sling attachments).Period 1936-38.

Regards,
Doc AV
AV Ballistics.

 

Thank you all for the fast reply. I own an Brazilian Modell 1908 (Carbine?), cal. 7x57 Mauser, it is definetely not a shortened long rifle, and also not a 1922 or 08 / 34 Modell as only 1908 is indicated on the right receiver side. System is marked on the left side with Fabrica de Itajuba, Brazilian National Crest on top of the receiver, bent bold, system and barell all blued, Sights are limited to 1400m, Serial has 5 Digits starting with 52xxx, Barell is marked 259-46 near the muzzle, Stock has a light brown colour matching serial number, has two swivel attachement down. All parts have this circled z. What rifle do i have here? Overall condition is used but still good. Barrel condition is almost unfired.