I bought a c96 at a gunshow today. It's not in fantastic shape, but doesn't have major pitting, has fair rifling, and all numbers match except the grips, which I was told are not original. I bought it under the assumption - and the seller's assumption - that it's a 7.63. While inspecting the rifling again after purchase, I decided to do a "drop test" by inserting a 7.63 cartridge bullet down in the muzzle. I figured if the bore was really worn it would sink in up to or close to the case neck. instead the cartridge sank in up to the shoulder and had room to wiggle. I tried a 9mm cartridge and it set in partway up the bullet, comparable to the depth it sank into the muzzle of my 9mm Hi Power. Upon disassembling, I held a 7.63 cartridge in the chamber and shined a light down the muzzle. I could see the bullet and the case neck clearly, with even a little room around the case neck. The bore appears much to big for a .30 mauser.
I'm assuming this is a 9mm. Is there any way to tell for sure from markings, other tips, or should I take it to a smith?
For what it's worth, the serial is 4041xx, which indicates WWI era production. It's full size - not Bolo.
I'm assuming this is a 9mm. Is there any way to tell for sure from markings, other tips, or should I take it to a smith?
For what it's worth, the serial is 4041xx, which indicates WWI era production. It's full size - not Bolo.