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How to identify old bolt action rifles

Bolt action rifles have a sliding bolt that is manually activated. This occurs when the user uses a small handle to open and close the barrel (breech), causing the used shell casing to eject. The firing pin is then engaged and a new shell is placed into the barrel and the handle is used to close the bolt. Bolt action rifles came into use after the Civil War, and antique versions are collector items. There are a few ways to correctly identify an antique bolt action rifle.

Instructions

- 1
  Learn about antique bolt action rifles by reading reference books with detailed information and photographs. Examples of reference books include “Bolt Action Rifles” by Frank De Haas, “Collecting Classic Bolt Action Military Rifles” by Paul S. Scarlata and “Winchester Bolt Action Military and Sporting Rifles” by Herbert G. Houze.
- 2
  View websites with photographs of antique bolt action rifles and examine the detailed photographs of antique bolt rifles. Note the condition of the wood and the metal hardware, which lacks the polish and shine of modern materials. Examples of websites include Arms2Armor.com and AntiqueGuns.com. (See Resources)
- 3
  Look for a rifle with a double column magazine that does not extend below the stock. These are Mauser bolt rifles that were manufactured between 1893 and 1896 and were the first modern Mauser bolt action rifles. If you find one with a single column magazine that does extend below the stock, the rifle is an 1891 Mauser bolt action rifle and is considered one of the first bolt action rifles.
- 4
  Examine the rifle for crown stamps and military markers as well as bolt action, non-removable magazine and a barrel that is approximately 38 inches long. This is a British military bolt action rifle from the late 1800s to early 1900s.
- 5
  Find bolt action rifles that have had military stamps manually ground away and do not have serial numbers. The stocks will have thin forearms and wrist areas. These are commonly Model 98 Mauser bolt action rifles that were converted to sport rifles following World War I when Germany was held to strict arms limitations and could not produce new guns. These guns have higher collector value due to the historical background of the rifles.

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