Produced by the Germans in 1917 and 1918 in response to Allied tank assaults, the Mauser Tankgewehr 18, or "Elefant-Buechse" was the first dedicated man-portable anti-tank weapon, and the forefather of the "anti-material rifle" as a small arms category. Weighing in at 37 pounds, the T-Gewehr was capable of penetrating the armor of the day, and could disable an enemy vehicle in 6-10 shots. Relatively few T-Gewehrs made it to the U.S.; while a truly intimidating trophy, most AEF men opted for souvenirs that didn't require a team lift to get on the boat home. Blade front and tangent rear sights, with matching numbers on the barrel, sights, barrel band, receiver, bolt components, and bolt catch, the Mauser banner over "1918" on the receiver ring, and a smooth two-piece pistol grip stock fitted with a swiveling metal bipod with spiked feet.

Fine, with 60% of the fine original blue finish, showing areas of gray and brown patina, mild spotting, and a few dings on top of the receiver. The bipod has been repainted green. Stock is also fine, with mild scratches and dents. Mechanically excellent.