Make: Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabriken, Berlin Germany

Model: 1891

Serial Number: R7317

Year of Manufacture: Post-1896

Caliber: 7.65x53mm Argentine

Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine.

Markings: The receiver is marked, “R7317 / MAUSER MODELO ARGENTINO 1891 / DEUTSCH WAFFEN UND MUNITIONSFABRIKEN. BERLIN”. All serialized parts are matched to the receiver. There are various Argentine proofs throughout.

Barrel Length: 29”.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular post dovetailed to a raised base. The rear sight is a flip up V-notch ladder marked out to 20.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The sporterized stock is a two piece wood set, barrel band w/ sling loop, straight wrist, sling loop, straight comb, with a steel buttplate. There are light pressure dents and scratches throughout. There are no chips but there is a small crack at the wrist. The LOP is 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall this stock rates at a Good to Very Good condition as sporterized.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is sharp. There is moderate to heavy erosion in the bore with light pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 6/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The crest has been ground off. The bluing is strong and bright throughout. The sear on the firing pin has been sheared off. The screw heads range from lightly tooled to undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action does not function correctly as the rear of the firing pin/sear has been sheared off. 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: This DWM Argentine Mauser Model 1891, chambered in 7.65x53mm Argentine, is a well-preserved and mostly matching example of an important military bolt-action rifle from the late 19th century, produced by Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabriken (DWM) in Berlin, Germany. Originally manufactured for the Argentine military, this model was the first Mauser rifle to use clip-loading and a charger guide, paving the way for the evolution of later models like the Mauser 1893 and the famed 1898. With its 29-inch barrel, this rifle was built for long-range precision and battlefield durability, characteristics that helped establish Mauser's global reputation. This example has been sporterized, but retains much of its original configuration and components, including matching serialized parts throughout. Though the stock has been modified, the metal finish remains remarkably strong, with about 97% of the original bluing still intact. The Argentine crest on the receiver has been ground off, a common practice on surplus rifles exported to civilian markets. The bore is gray with sharp rifling, but exhibits moderate to heavy erosion and light pitting, indicating use with corrosive ammunition, which was typical for the era. Mechanically, the rifle does not currently function as intended due to a sheared sear on the firing pin, a relatively straightforward issue for a knowledgeable gunsmith or restorer to address. Despite this, the rifle’s action is otherwise intact, and the markings remain crisp and legible, showcasing the craftsmanship of its DWM manufacture.

For collectors, restorers, or historical firearms enthusiasts, this Argentine Mauser 1891 offers a valuable opportunity. While it has been sporterized and has a mechanical flaw, its strong condition, matching serial numbers, and historical pedigree make it a worthy project or display piece. With a functioning bolt and beautiful original bluing, this rifle could be restored to shooting condition or appreciated as an authentic relic from the age of Mauser innovation. Whether you're passionate about South American military contracts, early Mauser development, or unique bolt-action rifles, this Model 1891 represents a significant and increasingly uncommon chapter in military surplus history.