Sporterized Mauser in 7x57 (and LINK to pics)

[TomT]

Hi all,

First, THANK YOU ALL for all the help/info. on the double trigger, re-chambered 45-70 I inquired about last week.

As promised, below is a LINK to my sporterized, 7x57 Mauser. I purchased this at a gun show on Long Island, NY around 1997-1998 (can't find the receipt atm). My dad and I came across it on a table, and initially thought it was a rimfire or small cartridge centerfire (22 Hornet? 243?, etc. We were impressed with the stock work, and light weight/balance of the rifle. I really like small firearms and Savage 99s (99G in 250-3000Sav. and a 99F in .300Sav.) are my favorites. The best is, this Mauser was $300 OTD, The ONLY thing I added was the slim sling. It shoots well, is a pleasure to carry in the woods, and if I have ONE complaint about the rifle, it would be the (obviously military) safety. It's not exactly quick, OR quiet. Not really in search of info., like my last posting, but, if anyone can tell me more than I know about the rifle, I'd be happy. Thanks, and have a great weekend! -TomT

https://www.24hourcampfire.com/ubbth...3#Post13594623

[mike ford]

TomT,
The safety on your rifle is definitely not military, it is an "after market" low scope safety, as is the trigger. These are positive changes for a hunting rifle. In my unsolicited opinion, you got a good deal.
Mike

[sharps4590]

I concur with Mike! I particularly like the checkered butt, always thought they were cool.

[JDL]

Count me as another who thinks you got a good deal. I really like the POW grip.

[Axel E]

This rifle apparently started life a a rare Colombian model 31 military short rifle. About 1960 these 7x57 rifles were surplused and sold on the US market. Someone put on a new front sight + base and a receiver sight. Even later, a low bolt handle was welded on, the receiver sight removed, the scope mounted and a Buehler safety added. Sometimes along the way an aftermarket trigger was added too. The stock the rifle is in now seems to be older than the rest of the other alterations. It probably came from another pre-WW2 German sporter that was restocked post-WW2 to then American tastes. The reshaped triggerguard may have come from the same rifle. As it is now, it is a nice, light hunting rifle to be used on any North American game, but without any collector's value.

[TomT]

Thanks for the comments gentleman! I'm impressed that Axel can tell all that from the pics.

I didn't think it had any collectors value, with all the "hunting modifications", I just like the handiness/lightness, so I figured I'd share some photos.

Much appreciated info. -TomT