Model: 1898

Serial Number: 26064

Year of Manufacture: 1912

Caliber: 8mm Rast Gasser, 8x27mmR

Action Type: Double and Single Action 8-Shot Revolver

Barrel Length: 4 1/2"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into a base integral to the barrel, the blade sits notably to the right in the dovetail. The rear sight is a v-notch integral to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece wood. The grips do not appear to be original to the gun, showing scattered weathering. There are two wood fills on the left panel and the right panel shows a small piece of metal on the surface. Due to the tight fit of the grips, we were not able to remove them from the frame to inspect their interior. Originally checkered, the panels pattern is visible only in some areas. Overall, the grips are in about Fair condition.

Type of Finish: Black Enamel

Finish Originality: Refinished, observed numbers match.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is well-defined. There is evenly scattered light erosion and minor pitting. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 6/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 10% of its current metal finish. The ejector spring is missing. Remaining finish is scattered and infrequent with some strong finish on the interior of the frame, visible with the cylinder removed. Most surfaces have been polished or cleaned to white. There is scattered surface erosion and light pitting that has been mostly cleaned out. The markings range from clear to worn and incomplete. The action shows operational wear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fair condition as refinished.

Mechanics: The ejector spring is missing and the ejector does not have a strong detent against the cylinder pin. Otherwise, the action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: Intended for wide adoption by the Austrian-Hungarian army in the period before World War I, the Rast and Gasser 1898 ultimately made its way only to NCOs and gunners as a secondary weapon due to slower-than-desirable production at the time. It did see use through World War II, however. This particular example is a commercially marked revolver, likely purchased by an officer. It is from 1912 and based on its condition likely saw service in the Great War, possibly beyond. This is a neat piece of history that will display well in a collection with its "been there, done that" appearance. Please see our photos and good luck!