Make: D.W.M. / Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken, imported by Armsco

Model: O.V.S. Boer Wars 1895 Mauser

Serial Number: 8470, matching parts

Year of Manufacture: 1896-1902 / ATF Classification: C&R

Caliber/Gauge: 7x57mm Mauser

Action Type: Bolt action, blind magazine

Barrel Length: 29"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into a raised base banded around the barrel. The rear sight is a folding ladder sight adjustable from 500 meters to 2 kilometers. The receiver was drilled and tapped at one point, but was filled and restored to its original configuration.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two piece wood with a handguard, straight comb, straight wrist grip, and a smooth metal buttplate. The buttplate shows moderate wear and surface oxidation. The furniture shows moderate wear with pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches throughout. The LOP measures 13" from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is a minor crack running from the upper tang. This furniture rates in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is lightly worn. There is light pitting and erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 7.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 65% of its metal finish. The metal shows scratches, scattered patina, handling marks, and freckling in the bluing. The receiver was drilled and tapped at one point, but was filled and restored to its original configuration with polish around the fills. The screw heads are lightly tooled and retain turnable slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.

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

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather sling and Chilean M1895 Bayonet, the serial on the scabbard does not match the bayonet

Our Assessment: This OVS Boer War Mauser Model 1895, serial number 8470, was manufactured circa 1896 to 1902 and represents one of the most storied bolt action rifles of the late 19th century. Built on the proven Mauser 1895 pattern, these rifles were originally produced under contract for Chile. However, a portion of that production was diverted and ultimately supplied to Boer forces during the Second Boer War. As a result, many of these rifles bear Chilean M1895 markings despite their documented use in South Africa, a fascinating intersection of global arms trade and colonial conflict.

Chambered in 7x57mm Mauser with a 29" barrel, this rifle is built around one of the most influential military cartridges ever developed. The 7x57mm earned a formidable reputation for flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and battlefield effectiveness, notably in the hands of Boer marksmen who leveraged its performance against British forces. The bore rates 7.5 out of 10, and the action functions correctly, demonstrating the enduring strength and precision of the 1895 Mauser system. This example is accompanied by an M1895 bayonet, completing the martial presentation.

Approximately 65% of the original bluing remains, with matching numbered parts throughout, supporting originality and collector interest. Finish wear is consistent with field service and long-term preservation. As an OVS-associated Model 1895 bearing Chilean contract markings yet tied to the Second Boer War, this rifle stands as a compelling artifact of late 19th century military history and the global reach of Mauser's bolt action design.