Make: Ceskoslovenska Zbrojovka, A.S. (Czechoslovakian Arms Factory Ltd.) located in Brno, Czechoslovakia

Model: Vz. 24

Serial Number: SR 12947

Year of Manufacture: 1924 to 1940s

Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)

Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine

Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “SR 12947 / CESKOSLOVENSKA ZBROJOVKA, BRNO Vz.24”. The top of the receiver has a ground off crest. There is an import mark on the receiver. The stock is serial matched to the rifle.

Barrel Length: 23.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a v-blade post set atop a ramped base with stamped protective wings. The rear sight is a v-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly marked out to 20.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a forend cap/bayonet lug & cleaning rod, barrel band w/ two sling loops, finger grooves, through bolt, semi-pistol grip, two sling loops, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are pressure dents and scratches throughout. There are some small chips. There is a small crack forming on the top handguard. The LOP measures 13.1” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is mostly pronounced. There is moderate erosion and some light pitting marks in the bore. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 6.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There are spots of thinning and discoloration on the cold blue. There is some rust on the buttplate along with discoloration. The screw heads are mostly sharp. The markings are clear aside from the crest. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition as refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Czech Vz. 24 is widely considered one of the finest iterations of the Mauser bolt-action system ever produced. Manufactured at the Brno arsenal during the interwar years, the Vz. 24 was Czechoslovakia’s standard military rifle and quickly gained international recognition for its craftsmanship, strength, and smooth action. It was used extensively by Czechoslovakia and later exported or captured for use by various nations during World War II—including Nazi Germany, which pressed many into service following the annexation of Czechoslovakia. Its shorter carbine profile and robust metallurgy made it a favorite among mountain troops and cavalry units. The Vz. 24 became one of the most widely distributed Mauser variants, finding its way into conflicts across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. This example has seen some refurbishment but remains a strong representative of the model. The metal finish has been redone and shows about 90% remaining coverage, though some thinning and discoloration are present. The stock has been refinished as well but maintains solid integrity with only minor pressure marks, a few chips, and a small crack at the handguard. The bore has visible rifling, but moderate erosion and light pitting are present, which is to be expected from rifles that served in military arsenals through the era of corrosive priming.

For collectors or shooters looking to explore the world of surplus Mauser rifles, the Vz. 24 represents one of the highest quality platforms available. Its combination of craftsmanship and battlefield heritage make it a favorite in both historical and practical terms. While this particular rifle may not be a mint collector’s piece, it is a solid example of a service-grade Vz. 24—refinished but with strong mechanical function and authentic Brno lineage. Whether you’re building a Mauser collection, interested in the interwar arms industry, or simply want a rugged 8mm bolt-action for range use, this Czech carbine is a compelling piece of 20th-century military history.