This is a very nice, unaltered and early Production German Military 71/84 rifle. Notice this rifle only has a three digit serial number making it one of the first ones produced. This was Mauser's first attempt in producing a magazine fed bolt action rifle. These were an improvement from the original Model 71 rifles and were manufactured in the early 1880s. The left side of the receiver is marked "A.G. Mod 71/84" and on the right side is marked 1888 for the year of manufacture. The rear of the barrel is octagonal in shape and directly on top it has the "Crown over SPANDAU" for Spandau Arsenal and the left side has the Crown over F.W. and double "D" proofs at each end, the right side of the barrel has a series of three Crown proofs. The stock is the correct full length walnut military version with the tubular magazine running the full length underneath. The right side of the buttstock, the pistol grip area and the lower stock have a series of German Crown over a "W" or "M" proof, all very clear and sharp. The sights are the large tangent "V" notch rear adjustable to 1600 meters and the inverted "V" front. The receiver and buttplate both have the original "In the White" polished finish and balance of the parts have the traditional pre-war German High polished blue finish. It is complete with an original leather sling.

Excellent overall with 90% of the original blue finish intact, except for the top of the barrel between the barrel band that show heavy blue loss/light scratches, with a single thumb print size dark spot. The small dark spot was probably a patch of light rust just starting and someone improperly cleaned it off. The receiver still retains it's original bright polish blue finish overall. The stock is in excellent condition showing only minor handling marks with clear crisp cartouches and proofs overall. Even with the blue loss on top of the barrel this is still excellent rifle that shows minimal actual field use.