This is a very fine example of a scarce early production larger frame Mauser Model 1878 revolver. The revolver was nick-named Zig-Zag because of the parallel and inclined grooves machined into the outside of the cylinder which actually rotates the cylinder during firing. This is the hinged frame model with the ring-type cylinder locking lever 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 top of the barrel rib is roll engraved "WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER OBERNDORF A/NECKAR". The left side of the barrel lug has a double "Crown/U" proofmark over serial number "2105". The back side of the ring lever, rear of the cylinder, lower locking lug on the frame and back side of each grip are correctly numbered "105". The revolver has later style round-butt with the lanyard loop. It is fitted with a two piece set of hard rubber grips with a stylized floral and vine pattern around the edges and the center section checkered. These pistols have a rust blue finish with a casehardened finish on the cylinder latch, trigger and hammer. 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 they were replaced by the 1896 Mauser pistol. Examples of this distinctive Mauser revolver are scarce.

Very fine with 85% of the original blue finish still remaining overall with edge and high spot wear and approximately the front half of the cylinder having been lightly restored. The sides of the barrel have browned out somewhat, and there are some very fine, small areas of light erosion on the left side of the barrel. The grips are in excellent condition with just very light wear on the sides. The smaller parts retain 50% of their heat blued finish overall. A very nice high condition example of an early Mauser Zig-Zag revolver.