This is an example of an early production, Mauser Model 1896, that was professionally modified from 10 shot to 20 Shot, configuration. These pistols were produced in exceptionally small numbers in several small production runs and were an attempt to provide high magazine capacity semi-automatic pistols and for Mauser to compete with the high capacity. It is estimated that less than a 100 total were produced in several small production runs. The reason for the limited manufacturing is that these large frame forging were all one piece which required a special nonstandard production run of forgings. This example falls into the early documented serial number range for the standard 10 shot cone hammer pistols. The top of the barrel extension is marked "WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER OBERNDORF A/N", and the right side has a double "Crown/U" acceptance proof, and the right side of the barrel extension has a small "Antlered Proof" indicative of the early Oberndorf production. The front underside of the barrel is stamped with a double script letter proof over an elongated "M/1/GCM" markings. This pistol is equipped with the various early features such as non-reinforced chamber area, long extractor, cone hammer, the first style safety lever that you pull down to engage, the early style tangent rear that is held in by a pin driven in from the side with the large numbers graduated from "50-500" meters, along with the first style firing pin that is retained by the dovetailed block. This scarce example comes with a newly made combination shoulder stock/holster that was made expressly for the "20 Shot" Mauser pistol as it has to accommodate the enlarged frame. It is fitted with a set of 23 groove, walnut grips that are numbered on the back "6170" on each one. It is complete with the ring on the bottom of the frame.

Fine as professionally custom converted to 20 shot with 99% of the current restored blued finish overall with 99% of the nitre blue on the smaller parts. The walnut grips are in excellent condition as restored. The reproduction walnut stock has been custom fabricated and is in fine condition and duplicates an original exceptionally well. The stock retains 99% of its blued metal finish and hand rubbed oil finish overall.