I Have This Old Gun: Chinese Broomhandle Mausers

Published on June 4, 2025
Duration: 5:24

This video delves into the history and significance of the Mauser C96 'Broomhandle' pistol, particularly its widespread adoption and production in China. It highlights how China became the largest user of the Broomhandle, with various arsenals and manufacturers producing copies, ranging in quality. The discussion also touches on the pistol's design, its effectiveness with a shoulder stock, and the Chinese nickname 'Box Cannon'.

Quick Summary

China became the largest user of the Mauser C96 Broomhandle pistol, with millions produced over decades. The Chinese referred to it as a 'Box Cannon,' appreciating its effectiveness, especially with a shoulder stock, which made it capable at 100-150 yards.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction to the Mauser Broomhandle
  2. 00:12China: The Biggest User of the Mauser
  3. 00:26The C96 Broom Handle Mauser (1896)
  4. 00:50Chinese Adoption and Warlords
  5. 01:11Variations in Chinese Broomhandle Quality
  6. 01:31Taku Naval Dockyard and Its Firearms Production
  7. 01:54Taku Naval Dockyard's C96 Mauser Copies
  8. 02:01Other Chinese Makers: Shanti Arsenal
  9. 02:09Taku Naval Dockyard Guns: High Standards
  10. 02:40Chinese Broomhandle's Romantic Interest
  11. 03:00Chinese Nickname: 'Box Cannon'
  12. 03:08Effectiveness with Shoulder Stock
  13. 03:22Typical Chambering: 30 Mauser
  14. 03:35Small Makers and Obscured Markings
  15. 04:22Challenges in Collecting Chinese Broomhandles
  16. 04:32Beware of 1980s Reproductions
  17. 05:00China: The Only Official Adopter

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the Mauser C96 Broomhandle so significant in China?

China became the largest user of the Mauser C96 Broomhandle, with millions produced over decades. Import restrictions on rifles made handguns, especially those with shoulder stocks, more desirable for Chinese military and warlords.

What was the Chinese nickname for the Mauser C96 Broomhandle?

The Chinese referred to the Mauser C96 Broomhandle pistol as a 'Box Cannon.' This name likely reflected its distinctive, boxy appearance and its formidable effectiveness, particularly when equipped with its shoulder stock.

How did the quality of Chinese Broomhandle Mauser copies vary?

The quality of Chinese Broomhandle Mauser copies varied significantly. Some were of bottom-barrel quality, while others were quite decent reproductions of the original German Mauser designs, reflecting diverse manufacturing capabilities.

Were all Chinese Broomhandle Mausers chambered in 30 Mauser?

No, while 30 Mauser was the typical chambering, some Chinese Broomhandle Mausers were produced in other calibers. Notably, the Shanti Arsenal manufactured versions chambered in .45 ACP.

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