How Can I Identify the Crest on My Mauser?

Rub about a teaspoon of the flour or chalk dust onto the stampings on the side of the receiver and the receiver ring on the Mauser rifle, including the crest. The receiver is the part of the rifle where the ammunition is loaded, and the ring is the raised band of metal. Wipe off the excess; this should give the markings contrast. Photograph the markings, using the digital camera, so you can examine them more closely.

Examine the crest. The language of the markings will allow you to narrow down the origin of the Mauser rifle. German, Spanish and Portuguese are the most common. Sometimes a country's name is stamped on the receiver ring.

Write down the numbers and other markings stamped on the receiver and the receiver ring. These may include a serial number, a model number and the name of the production plant, such as "Waffenfabrik Mauser Berlin."

Look for any proof or inspection marks on the receiver. These will be symbols, such as one or two letters or numbers separate from the serial number, or a small shield, circle or star accompanied by a letter or number.

Note the type of sights and the bolt-safety configuration. Some rifles have Mauser ramp-style sights, while other have ladder sights that lift into a vertical position. Earlier models have two-position safeties (the flat tab in front of the shooter's eye). Beginning with the 1898 model, Mausers had three-position safeties.

Compare the crest and other markings on your Mauser rifle to ones shown in reference books, which are available at bookstores and many public libraries. Mausers have been thoroughly documented. A reference book may also tell you about the date and service of your rifle.