swissFor sale/trade: German Gewehr 88/05 chambered in 8mm Mauser / 7.92x57. This is a historically important early German service rifle, often called the Commission Rifle. It predates the Mauser 98 system, this is basically the great-grandfather era of the Kar98k. This example is a 88/05 factory upgraded for spitzer-style 8mm Mauser ammo. It has the typical updated 88/05 features, including the “S” marking and receiver cutout for the pointed bullet profile. This definitely should not be tired with high velocity commercial 8mm Mauser ammo. A few historical/mechanical notes: Uses the Mannlicher-licensed / Mannlicher-style magazine system heritage, with the 88/05 update adapted for charger/stripper-clip loading. Has the distinctive barrel jacket, which is one of the signature features of the Gewehr 88 pattern. Note Not the same thing as a later Mauser 98/Kar98k action, so ammo needs to be treated carefully. Although this is commonly described as 8mm Mauser / 7.92x57, these older rifles should not be treated like later Mauser 98-pattern rifles. Original bores were often around .321", while some modern 8mm Mauser ammunition/projectiles are .323". Some rifles were later modified or rebarreled, but many are still original or have mixed upgrade histories. I have not measured the bore diameter on this rifle. Buyer should verify the bore diameter themselves before firing. Use only appropriate lower-pressure ammunition suitable for older Gewehr 88/88-05 type rifles. Willing to sell or trade. I am especially interested in revolvers, particularly .357 Magnum revolvers. Other quality revolver trades may be considered.
