Chinese Mystery Mauser: Fake FN Model 30

Published on September 8, 2023
Duration: 11:18

This expert-level review from Forgotten Weapons details how to identify a fake Chinese FN Model 30 Mauser. Ian McCollum highlights key differences in receiver crests, machining quality, component attachment methods (nails vs. screws), and functional features like the bayonet lug and front sight. The rifle's poor craftsmanship raises significant safety concerns, making it unsuitable for firing.

Quick Summary

To identify a fake Chinese FN Model 30 Mauser, examine the receiver crest for crude replication, check for missing factory markings on the side rail, and assess machining quality. Look for nails used instead of screws, a floor plate fixed by a screw, a non-functional bayonet lug, and a solid front sight block. These rifles are often unsafe to fire due to poor materials and construction.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Chinese Mystery Mauser
  2. 00:26Mauser 98 Pattern in China
  3. 00:47Chinese Mauser Acquisition History
  4. 01:24Artisanal FN Model 30 Copy
  5. 02:10Motivation for Copying FN Mausers
  6. 02:37Rifle Physical Characteristics
  7. 03:24Bolt and Sling Attachments
  8. 03:44Identifying a Fake: Receiver Crest
  9. 04:10Identifying a Fake: Markings and Serial Number
  10. 04:24Identifying a Fake: Machining Quality
  11. 04:57Identifying a Fake: Butt Plate and Stock
  12. 05:22Identifying a Fake: Floor Plate
  13. 06:12Identifying a Fake: Bayonet Lug
  14. 06:59Identifying a Fake: Front Sight
  15. 07:51Rifle Functionality and Safety Concerns
  16. 09:38Chinese Fakes in Collector Market

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key indicators of a fake Chinese FN Model 30 Mauser?

Key indicators include a poorly replicated receiver crest, lack of factory markings on the side rail, crude machining evident in screws and attachments (nails instead of screws), a fixed floor plate secured by a screw, a non-functional bayonet lug, and a solid front sight block with non-functional adjustment lobes.

Why did Chinese gunsmiths copy FN Mausers?

Chinese gunsmiths copied FN pattern Mausers because these European weapons were recognized for their quality and were familiar to soldiers serving in Chinese armies. This made them a desirable model to replicate for domestic production.

What are the safety concerns with this fake Chinese Mauser?

This rifle is missing its safety flag and has a loose bolt stop. The primary safety concern stems from potentially poor steel alloy and heat treatment, making it unsafe to fire due to the risk of catastrophic failure.

How did these fake Chinese Mausers enter the US collector market?

These fake Chinese Mausers entered the US collector market primarily in the 1980s and 1990s. They were often mixed in with genuine factory-produced firearms during export shipments, making them difficult to distinguish without careful inspection.

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