Type 13 Manchurian Mauser - A WW1 Legacy in China

Published on November 26, 2018
Duration: 12:20

This video provides an in-depth review of the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser, a unique rifle with a legacy tied to WWI and subsequent Chinese history. Expert Ian McCollum details its Austrian design origins, post-WWI production in Manchuria under Zhang Zuolin, and specific features like its improved bolt assembly and dust cover. The review highlights the rifle's rarity and significance for collectors of historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Type 13 Manchurian Mauser is a unique bolt-action rifle with WWI-era Austrian design origins, produced in China from around 1924. It features enhanced bolt protection against dirt and mud, a distinctive split serial number on the bolt handle, and a legacy tied to Manchuria's history.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser
  2. 00:37WWI Origins and Steyr Development
  3. 01:35Post-War Production in Manchuria
  4. 03:15Markings and Serial Numbers
  5. 04:42Design Features and Arisaka Influence
  6. 05:50Bolt Assembly Improvements
  7. 07:10Bolt Disassembly and Dust Cover Function
  8. 09:55External Components and Accessories
  9. 11:06Conclusion and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser?

The Type 13 Manchurian Mauser, also known as the Liao Type 13, is a bolt-action rifle developed from Austrian Steyr improvements on the German Gewehr 98, designed around 1917. It was later produced in China starting around 1924 at the Mukden Arsenal.

What are the key design features of the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser?

Key features include a bolt shroud for the cocking piece, a perforated sleeve for the firing pin spring, a dust cover slot, and a flat tangent rear sight graduated from 300-2000 meters. A unique marking is the serial number split across the bolt handle.

Why was the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser produced in China?

Following WWI, the Treaty of Versailles restricted firearm manufacturing in Austria. Steyr partnered with Zhang Zuolin, ruler of Manchuria, to establish production of the improved rifle design at the Mukden Arsenal.

What is significant about the Type 13 Manchurian Mauser's bolt assembly?

The bolt assembly was enhanced with a shroud and sleeve to protect against dirt and mud, improving reliability. The dust cover, though often missing, played a role in bolt alignment during operation.

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