This is a very fine example of a factory engraved Mauser Model 1878 revolver with the hinged frame. The revolver was nicknamed Zig-Zag because of the parallel and inclined grooves machined into the outside of the cylinder which actually rotate the cylinder during firing. As noted this is the hinged frame model with the ring-type cylinder locking lever/ejector located ahead of the trigger guard, and a safety latch on the left side of the frame that prevents the cylinder from rotating when engaged. The revolver is finished in nickel with a gold locking lever, cylinder, frame screws, hammer and trigger. The frame, trigger guard, cylinder and front of the locking lever are engraved with floral leaf designs. In addition there is a fine scallop border on top of the barrel rib, zigzag designs on the locking lever and a geometric design on a portion of the front strap. The top of the barrel rib is marked "GEBR MAUSER & CIE OBERNDORF A/N. WURTTEMBERG. 1878". The serial number "1048" is marked on the rear cylinder face and the partial number "48" is marked on the cylinder lock/ejector, trigger, frame lug and crudely marked on the lower left side of the frame under the grip. The revolver has later style round-butt with the lanyard loop on the end of the butt. It is fitted with two piece Gutta Percha grips with a relief stylized floral and vine pattern around the edges and checkering in the center. The inside of each panel is marked "1048" in two places and "F2-1395" at the top of each panel. These revolvers were later chambered in the 9mm Mauser cartridge, (forerunner to the 9mm Parabellum). Although very well manufactured and reliable, the Mauser Model 1878 was expensive to manufacture and had limited commercial sales. They remained in service with the German Army for 18-20 years until it was replaced by the 1896 Mauser pistol. Examples of this distinctive Mauser revolver are scarce. Comes in a custom made leather bound hard case with green fitted felt lining with two keys.

Very fine as partially replated (cylinder, hammer, trigger and cylinder stop lever) with 98% original nickel finish remaining, with some very minor blistering on top of the barrel rib and some scattered minor dings and scratches. 90% of the gold finish remains with some normal cycling wear and thinning on the hammer. There is a small amount of very minor pitting under the finish on the rear face of the cylinder. The grips are excellent. The markings and engraving are crisp and clear. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good plus.