Papuan Vrijwilliger Korps Mauser Carbine

Published on December 18, 2017
Duration: 7:54

This entry details the scarce Papuan Volunteer Corps (PVK) Mauser Carbine, a modified FN Mauser originally intended for Dutch colonial forces in Papua New Guinea. Expert Ian McCollum explains its historical context, selection over more modern rifles, and technical modifications including caliber conversion to 7.62 NATO and the addition of an AR-10 pattern bayonet lug. The rarity of these 2,700 converted carbines is emphasized, with few known examples surviving.

Quick Summary

The Papuan Volunteer Corps (PVK) Mauser Carbine is a scarce firearm modified from FN Mauser carbines for Dutch colonial forces in Papua New Guinea. Converted to 7.62 NATO and featuring a durable parkerized finish, it was chosen for its simplicity and reliability over more modern rifles like the FAL and AR-10. Approximately 2,700 were made, making them exceptionally rare today.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Papuan Mauser
  2. 00:32Historical Context
  3. 01:14Selection of the Bolt-Action Rifle
  4. 02:00Surplus Police Carbines
  5. 03:11Manufacturing and Markings
  6. 04:10Caliber Conversion to 7.62 NATO
  7. 05:16Ergonomic and Accessory Changes
  8. 06:37Rarity and Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Papuan Volunteer Corps (PVK) Mauser Carbine?

The PVK Mauser Carbine is a rare, modified FN Mauser carbine originally produced in Belgium and later converted in the Netherlands for use by a native volunteer corps in Papua New Guinea during the early 1960s independence movement.

Why was the Mauser carbine chosen for the PVK over the FAL or AR-10?

The Mauser carbine was selected for its simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance, making it ideal for non-professional soldiers in a challenging environment, unlike the more complex FAL and AR-10 rifles.

What were the main modifications made to the PVK Mauser Carbines?

Key modifications included a conversion from 8mm Mauser to 7.62 NATO caliber with magazine spacers, a durable parkerized finish, a rubber butt plate, and a new bayonet lug for an AR-10 pattern bayonet.

How rare are the Papuan Volunteer Corps Mauser Carbines today?

These carbines are extremely rare, with only about 2,700 converted. Few examples are known to exist, with most believed to have been lost or captured by Indonesia after the Dutch withdrawal.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Forgotten Weapons

View all →