Dutch Farmers Against the Empire: ZAR Mausers of the Boer War

Published on July 11, 2018
Duration: 20:59

This video delves into the ZAR Mauser rifles used by Dutch-origin Boer settlers during the Second Anglo-Boer War. It highlights the historical context, the Boer commando system, and the evolution towards Mauser rifles after trials with other models. Key technical features, including a unique flat-bottomed bolt face and cock-on-close action, are detailed, alongside personalization markings and the distinct carbine variant. The rarity of surviving examples due to post-war British destruction is also emphasized.

Quick Summary

ZAR Mauser rifles used in the Boer War are identifiable by a unique squared-off, flat surface on the bottom of their bolt face, a feature absent in Spanish or Chilean contracts. These rifles, often marked Model 1896, also have a cock-on-close action and an angled magazine follower that doesn't lock the bolt open.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Boer War Historical Context
  2. 03:40Boer Commando System & Weaponry
  3. 05:52Early Modernization & Mauser Adoption
  4. 07:42ZAR Mauser Orders & Distribution
  5. 10:34ZAR Mauser Technical Features
  6. 12:27Personalization & Markings
  7. 14:20ZAR Mauser Carbine Details
  8. 18:04Blockaded 'C' Prefix Order
  9. 19:50Post-War Fate & Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What made the ZAR Mauser rifles unique compared to other Mauser contracts?

ZAR Mauser rifles, often based on the 1893 pattern and marked as Model 1896, possess a distinctive squared-off, flat surface on the bottom of the bolt face. This feature is not found on Spanish or Chilean Mauser contracts and serves as a key identifier for Boer-issued rifles.

What was the historical significance of the ZAR Mauser rifles in the Boer War?

These Mausers represented a significant modernization for the Boer commandos, moving from obsolete single-shot rifles to a standardized, reliable bolt-action firearm. They became a symbol of Boer resistance, famously captured in the slogan 'Met God en die Mauser'.

Why are ZAR Mauser rifles considered rare today?

The vast majority of captured ZAR Mauser rifles were destroyed by the British military after the Boer surrender rather than being stockpiled. This systematic destruction significantly reduced the number of surviving examples, making them rare and valuable historical artifacts.

What are the key technical differences between the ZAR Mauser rifle and carbine?

The ZAR Mauser carbine features a shorter barrel, a bent bolt handle for easier manipulation, and a rear sight calibrated to 1400 meters, compared to the rifle's 2000 meters. It also had a reversible sling swivel assembly that users often modified.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →