This is an exceptionally nice unaltered early Mauser rifle. 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 / 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 prewar German High polished blue finish.

Excellent to like new condition with 99% of the original blue finish showing just some very minor light scratches on top and sides of the barrel bands. The receiver retains it's original bright polished finish. The stock is also in near excellent condition showing only minor handling marks in a few places with the right lower side of the buttstock having a quarter size series of gouges, probably from bumping against the bayonet lug while in the shipping containers. Overall a very hard rifle to improve on.