Mauser 7x57 Hengehaupt

[P38Light]

I inherited a Mauser 7x57 modified hunting rifle. It is in very good to excellent condition except for several indentations in the stock, with engraving, blue, red and white metal components. The name, presumably of the gunsmith that made it, Aug Louis Hneglehaupt, Zella, Mehlis, is engraved on the barrel. See attached photo. It has been in our family for many years and has seen very limited use - very occasional target shooting. Would very much appreciate knowing more about this rifle. Would also be helpful to know approximate value for insurance purposes.

Thanks for your help.

[mike ford]

P38light,
If you will take the rifle out of the stock and post photos of all the markings, we will be able to tell you much more about it. I was unable to read the crest on the receiver ring, and the proof marks will likely be hidden by the stock.
Mike

[Axel E]

Certainly built during the interwar years, using an action left over from WW1. Disassemble the rifle as Mike suggested. The proofmarks under the barrel will show the proof date, month and year.
August Louis Hengelhaupt, 1871 - 1951, Hochwaldstr. 11, Zella – Mehlis, founded his own business in 1906, after working for Oscar Will's "Venus – Waffenwerke". His sons Fritz, Willi, Berhard and grandson Harry continued, together with August Louis, until 1945. There were 43 Hengelhaupts working in the German, mostly Zella – Mehlis, guntrade over the years. Best known is Emil Hengelhaupt, inventor of the Geha shotgun conversion. But the family relations are unknown to me.