These rifles are based on early Paul Mauser designs and were manufactured by the German Empire's arsenal at Spandau initially as single shot rifles and then using a tubular under barrel magazine designed by Austrian General Alfred von Kropatschek starting in 1884. This rifle has the standard Model 71/84 features and is dated "1888." on the right side of the receiver behind the bolt. Matching partial or full serial numbers are marked on several components.

Excellent with 95% plus original blue finish, fairly bright breech with some oil staining and light patina, crisp markings throughout, some scattered minor surface scratches and storage type marks on the otherwise excellent wood. Mechanically excellent.