This World War I Mauser Model 1918 anti-tank rifle has been tastefully custom rechambered for use with .50 BMG, with a replacement M2 Browning machine gun barrel installed using a bushing to increase the diameter of the machine gun barrel to fit the threads in the Mauser receiver. The bushing protrudes approximately 1 3/4" forward of the receiver ring. Manufactured by the Mauser company during the war in 1917 and 1918 as Germany's response to Allied tank assaults, the Mauser Tankgewehr M1918, also known as the "Elefant-Buechse", was the first dedicated man-portable anti-tank weapon, originally chambered in 13.2mm TuF (13.2x92mm SR). A historically important weapon, the T-Gewehr gave birth to the anti-tank rifle and was the grandfather of the modern anti-material rifle. Mauser banner over "1918" date on the receiver ring, custom post front sight, a BAR M1918A2/Browning 1919A4 type rear sight, period duffel cut in the stock, and two period carved "kill" notches visible on the bottom of the forend. Matching visible serial numbers on the receiver, barrel band, bolt assembly, trigger guard, bolt stop and stock. This rifle is exempt from NFA provisions.

Good as period modified to present configuration, with some weld marks on the rear of the barrel band, refinished receiver, polished bolt, original finish on the replacement barrel, and scattered freckling, pitting and corrosion. Stock is also good, with period duffel cut and an attempted repair, and numerous scattered scratches, dents, scuffs, chips and cracks. The standard original bolt face is slightly larger in diameter than .50 BMG cartridge base diameter, halfway extracts dummy cartridges upon testing, otherwise mechanically fine.