Mannlicher-Schönauer

[Bob Glynn]

I've run across a barreled action that was in a fire some 30 years ago. It is still covered in charred carbon and I can make out the date of 1930. A crest on the top of the receiver looks to be similar to some Luger's with the Swiss markings. It has a rotary magazine and appears to be in a 6mm cal. The action is identical to the old 88 Commission rifle with a two piece bolt. Whoever rescued the action preserved it with a heavy oil and the fire must have charred the stock enough to give it a toss. The barrel is bare with no rear or front sight. I would love to get my hands on it for a restoration project and I wonder what everyones opinion is to the worth of this barreled action. I would like to provide more information but I can't just grab it and clean it up until I can contact the owner. I just don't know what a fair price would be to offer. I am a retired gunsmith so the mechanics and steel treatment are no problem. Any ideas will be helpful.

[germanguns1234]

This might not be helpful but it is my opinion. The action, at present, has little value. Any value that it might have will be added by you. I suggest that you offer what is comfortable to you and hope for the best.

[Bob Glynn]

Thank you. I know it is not in the same class as a Heym or Vierordt - but those come down the pike very seldom in my neck of the woods. The ones that did come to my shop were for inspection before purchase. I have a close friend that has been kicking himself for not buying one 10 years ago and of course the prices have soared since. I figure this may be a cheap way to get into one since I'll donate my time and it gives me the opportunity to work on something of old world quality. Thanks again.

[bro.steve]

I will be a pleasure to see the pictures after you restore it. Contact the Mannlicher Collectors Assoc. for even more information--they are friendly, service-minded folks. Good luck... bro.steve

[Bob Glynn]

thank you.

[Axel E]

From your description, 1930 date and crest with cross, you have the remains of a Greek military Mannlicher-Schoenauer model 1903/14 in 6.5x54 M-Sch. Post-WW1 these were assembled by Breda in Italy from parts made by the Steyr factory, thanks to the restrictions of the St.Germain "peace treaty". You will find hints to gunsmithing in Frank de Haas: "Bolt Action Rifles". Spare parts are sometimes available from Numrich, pre-inletted and -shaped stocks from www.gunstocks.com.

[Bob Glynn]

Thank you for the info.

[mike ford]

I think Springfield Sporters still has parts also, I bought a bolt and small parts a few years ago. I was satisfied with the service.