German stalking rifle, one specific marking

[pjogrinc]

I recently picked up a German stalking rifle that has a mark on it that I can not decipher.

It looks like an Crown with AHL in it.

I believe it is the makers mark, as there is no other identifications as to the maker.
Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

Pj

[mike ford]

pjogrinc,
The rifle was proofed in Zella-Mehlis, so you are likely looking for someone in, or around there. The MM is likely barrel maker Max Moeller's mark, and he was also in Zella-Mehlis. A lot of these 8.15x46R and similar headsize cartridge rifles were made by Langenhan(?). I don't recognize the mark, Axel may.
Mike

[Axel E]

That's the mark of August Louis Hengelhaupt, 1878 – 1951, Am Hochwald 11, Zella – Mehlis. In 1905 he was shop foreman of Oskar Will, Z – M. In 1906 he set up his own "factory". Trademark "Hochwald - Waffen". Sons Fritz, Willi , Bernhard and grandson Harry also worked at the family company. Closed down as a gunmaker after WW2. The rifle was proofed 10/36 = October 1936. One of the 42 Hengelhaupts active once in the Zella - Mehlis guntrade.

[pjogrinc]

Thank you very much. Was able to decipher all except the maker mark.

I just picked up another German hunting/target rifle, just followed me home. An M71 style, no cut out for clip, slim and pre German proof law as no proof markings, although if my memory is correct, has the crown V though.

Thanks again.

[mike ford]

pjogrinc,
We look forward to learning about your latest rifle.
Mike