Turkish Conehammer "Broomhandle" C96 Mauser

Published on October 13, 2019
Duration: 6:29

This expert review by Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons details the rare Turkish contract Mauser C96 'Conehammer' pistol. It covers the historical context of its 1897 order by Sultan Abdul Hamid II, its technical specifications including the 7.63mm Mauser caliber and 10-round internal magazine, and unique markings like Farsi numerals and the Sultan's crest. The video also explains the 'Conehammer' design, its service history in WWI, and its current NFA-exempt status despite previous SBR registration requirements.

Quick Summary

The Turkish contract Mauser C96 'Conehammer' is a historically significant semi-automatic pistol, notable as the first major contract for such a firearm. Chambered in 7.63mm Mauser with a 10-round internal magazine, it features unique Farsi script numerals and the Sultan's crest. Its 'Conehammer' designation refers to an early hammer design, and original examples are NFA exempt.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Historical Context
  2. 01:15Technical Configuration
  3. 01:35Markings and Numerals
  4. 02:26Legal Markings and Registration
  5. 03:24The Conehammer Design
  6. 04:08Service History and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Turkish contract Mauser C96 'Conehammer'?

The Turkish contract Mauser C96, ordered by Sultan Abdul Hamid II in 1897, represents the first major contract for a semi-automatic pistol. It features unique markings like Farsi numerals and the Sultan's crest, and its 'Conehammer' design is characteristic of early production models.

What caliber is the Turkish contract Mauser C96, and what was its magazine capacity?

The Turkish contract Mauser C96 is chambered in 7.63mm Mauser. The most popular magazine capacity for this contract was the 10-round internal magazine, although Mauser also produced 6 and 20-round variants.

Are original Mauser C96 pistols, like the Turkish contract model, subject to NFA regulations?

Original Mauser C96 pistols, including the Turkish contract 'Conehammer' variant, are generally NFA exempt. This means they do not require a tax stamp for possession, even if they were previously registered as Short Barreled Rifles (SBRs) to legally use a shoulder stock.

What does the 'Conehammer' designation refer to on the Mauser C96?

The 'Conehammer' designation refers to the distinctive stepped cone shape found on the sides of the hammer on early production Mauser C96 pistols. This design was used until approximately 1899 before Mauser transitioned to 'large ring' and 'small ring' hammer designs.

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