Mauser M90 DA: Not Mauser and Not a High Power

Published on February 25, 2026
Duration: 12:12

This guide details the disassembly of the Mauser Model 90 DA, highlighting its unique internal mechanisms and comparing them to the Browning Hi-Power and Smith & Wesson Model 59. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons emphasizes the differences in barrel lockup, trigger operation, and magazine design, crucial for understanding this rebranded Hungarian pistol.

Quick Summary

The Mauser Model 90 DA is a rebranded Hungarian FEG P9R pistol, distinguished by its double-action trigger and unique barrel lockup system employing a cam, unlike the Browning Hi-Power. Manufactured by FEG and imported by Mauser, it features a 15-round magazine that is not interchangeable with Hi-Power magazines.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to the Mauser M90 DA
  2. 00:46Mauser's Handgun Rebranding Strategy
  3. 01:17Origins of the Mauser Model 90 DA
  4. 02:42Features of the Mauser Model 90 DA
  5. 03:59Magazine Comparison and Interchangeability
  6. 04:51Internal Design and Mechanics
  7. 07:13Barrel and Trigger Mechanism Differences
  8. 09:18Production Numbers and Importation
  9. 11:23Legacy of Mauser and Acknowledgment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mauser Model 90 DA?

The Mauser Model 90 DA is a double-action semi-automatic pistol manufactured by FEG in Hungary and rebranded by Mauser in the 1990s. It is essentially a Hungarian P9R pistol with Mauser markings, featuring a design influenced by both the Browning Hi-Power and Smith & Wesson Model 59.

How does the Mauser Model 90 DA differ from a Browning Hi-Power?

While visually similar, the Mauser Model 90 DA has a double-action trigger, a different barrel lockup mechanism using a cam system (similar to S&W Model 59), and its magazines are not interchangeable with the Hi-Power. Parts are also not interchangeable between the two models.

Who manufactured the Mauser Model 90 DA?

The Mauser Model 90 DA was manufactured by FEG (Fegyver- és Gépgyár) in Hungary. Mauser contracted FEG to produce these pistols and then sold them under the Mauser brand name during the 1990s.

What is the capacity of the Mauser Model 90 DA magazine?

The Mauser Model 90 DA typically uses a 15-round magazine. Although it resembles a Browning Hi-Power magazine, it is taller and not interchangeable with the Hi-Power's standard capacity magazines.

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