'The Mausers of Southern Africa'

 

In the last years of the 1800s, South Africa started a love affair with the turn bolt rifles of Mauser design.

 

The rifle and its capabilities in the hands of the Boer, probably fuelled by patriotism, reached legendary status in its own lifetime. The 7mm Mauser calibre is alive and well loved to this day.

 

The First Great Unpleasantness (The Great War) saw the Portuguese Mauser and the earliest of the Gewehr 98, pitched against each other over a stretch of sand in the south-west corner of Africa.

 

Newer models followed but the Mauser had taken root in Africa, both in military and sporting service, it has stood the test of time.

 

Only a few remain, and perhaps fittingly as I write this on the day of the 100th Anniversary of the Peace of Vereeninging this page is dedicated to all those who served with these.

 

 Mauser Rifles in Southern African Service - A brief History (F. von Solms, 2002)

 

The Mausers of SA SIG is moderated by Freddy von Solms and Chris D Baragwanath, Please direct any correspondence in this regard to the SAAACA GC Office

 

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