Swedish Mauser by Carl Gustafs, Model 1896…..(F 1258)
Created on May 1st 2026
Very Early Carl Gustafs produced M 1896 Infanrty Rifle
This rifle is in standard military specification as a full length Infantry Rifle. Serial number “9029”. This serial number puts production at the Carl Gustafs plant in only the second year in Sweeden; the year 1899. Chambered in the highly accurate 6.5 x 55mm cartridge. Mauser bolt system with flag safety and internal 5-shot magazine. Overall the rifle measures 49.1/2″ in length. The round barrel is 29″ long and the trigger pull is 14.” Straight grip finger grooved stock in European Walnut displaying a rich redish brown patina. Good stock with normal signs of a military life. A light coloured patch behind the bore condition disc (from sanding) shows the area where the range conversions yellow sticker used to be.
The receiver is marked with the “Swedish Crown/ CG monogram / CARL GUSTAF STADS / GEVARSFAKTORI / 1899” This obviously tallies with the serial number data. The side wall of the action is marked with the initials of the Chief Weapons Inspectors initials; “O.G.” This was Olof Gibsob who held the position at the time. Adjacent to the initials is the serial number. No a completely matching example of the M96, but bolt and action match. The straight armed bolt is finished in the white and carries the last part of the number in several places. When working the action it is immediately obvious how smooth the movement of the cycling is, compared to some other Mausers. The Swedes really fine-tuned these rifles. Its just a big shame that some of the numbers have been replaced like on the reverse of the rear sight, however, as this is something that I am seeing often, I am starting to wonder if there is a genuine reason behind it.
The balance of the metalwork is blued but with less thinning from age wear as would be expected from a rifle of this vintage. The receiver has the strongest blue to it, otherwise, there do not appear to be any clumsy attempts at re-finishing. The stock is smooth to the touch. Wood to metal fit good all over. Under the barrel is the full length cleaning rod with another three digits on it. Nearly all the Swedish crown inspectors marks are stamped horizontally, indicating application at the Carl Gustafs plant. All Husqvarna stamps are applied at 45 degrees-as on the mid band. Bolt release to rear LHS of action. Steel butt-plate matching number. Twin sling swivels with period and issue correct genuine leather sling. For-end cap has a hole for the cleaning rod and a bayonet fixing lug. Muzzle is stepped to accept bayonet.
Rear sight graduated from 3 to 600 meters when “down” flat. The sight can be put in the upright position and in that configuration is graduated from 700 to 2000 meters. All bolt components are correctly serial numbered. Bore very clean with continuous rifling no pitting or misting – used but good. Vacant Brass disk inset into RHS of butt-stock. A great collectible Swede ready to assume its place in any military rifle collection. BNP proofed.
FAC Required Stock No F 1258
Now £ 725.
Correct, Unit marked M96 All steel bayonet & scabbard.
OAL including scabbard approx’ 14″ Narrow fullered blade 8.1/8″ long Cross hatched steel handle with attachment catch. The cross guard is unit marked: “11/I.3 No 748. Ricasso also carries crown markings and another number;”438” The reverse a clear “Crown” over a “C”. Scabbard blued – a little dented. Fits well to the rifle.
£ 75.
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