History of WWI Primer 079: Ottoman Mauser 1887 Documentary

Published on July 3, 2018
Duration: 57:51

This documentary details the Ottoman Mauser 1887, Peter Paul Mauser's last black powder rifle and the first for the Ottoman Empire. It covers its technical specifications, including an 8-round tubular magazine and 9.5x60mmR caliber, and the historical context of Mauser's business struggles and eventual success through the Ottoman contract. The video highlights design evolution, cartridge development, and the rifle's short service life due to the advent of smokeless powder.

Quick Summary

The Ottoman Mauser 1887 was Peter Paul Mauser's final black powder rifle and the first major contract for the Ottoman Empire. It featured an 8-round tubular magazine, a 9.5x60mmR caliber, and a two-lug bolt action for improved strength. Despite its robust design, it was quickly rendered obsolete by the advent of smokeless powder technology.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Ottoman Mauser 1887
  2. 00:44Technical Specifications Overview
  3. 01:11Mauser's Early Business and Design Evolution
  4. 04:17Cartridge Development: 9.5x60mmR
  5. 06:48Securing the Ottoman Contract
  6. 10:13Influence of Colmar von der Goltz
  7. 13:49Ottoman Inventory & Competition
  8. 17:15Winning the Contract & Adoption
  9. 19:42Rifle Features and Markings
  10. 21:17The Rise of Smokeless Powder & DWM
  11. 24:42Service History and Variants
  12. 27:20Shooting Impressions & Final Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Ottoman Mauser 1887?

The Ottoman Mauser 1887 was Peter Paul Mauser's last black powder rifle design and the first major firearm contract for the Ottoman Empire. It featured an 8-round tubular magazine and was chambered in the 9.5x60mmR cartridge.

What were the key technical specifications of the Ottoman Mauser 1887?

The Ottoman Mauser 1887 weighed approximately 9.31 lbs, had an overall length of 49.3 inches, and a capacity of 8 rounds in a fixed tubular magazine. It was chambered in the unique 9.5x60mmR cartridge.

Why was the Ottoman Mauser 1887 quickly obsolete?

The rifle used black powder, which was rapidly being replaced by smokeless powder. The advent of faster-firing, higher-velocity smokeless powder rifles made the 1887's design and cartridge less effective for modern warfare.

Who was instrumental in the Ottoman Mauser 1887's adoption?

German military advisor Colmar von der Goltz played a pivotal role in reforming the Ottoman army and advocating for German arms technology. Sultan Abdul Hamid II officially approved the Model 1887 on February 6, 1887.

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