Mannlicher Schoenauer 6.5x54 questions

[48Dragoon]

I just inherited a Mannlicher Schoenauer 6.5x54. I believe it is a 1903.

The one question i have is that where the side mount hsa been added for the scope there is a name that i cant figure out that will i think help me figure this gun out.

The * stands for where a scew has been put for the mount.

The name is: GES*WR*WAFF*ABR. (anyone know what this stands for or is)

 I am hoping to find out more about this rifle tomorrow with a serial number etc to figure out if this is an original gun. It belonged to my grandpa and is still in Africa. Hopefully i can get my dad to take some pictures soon and send them to me.

Thanks

[Brithunter]

If it's chambered in 6.5x54MS then it's a model 1903 as only the 1903 was chambered in 6.5mm. The side mount is quite common. Now it's the makers name whigh has hed the holes drilled through it. Gesteyr Wabinfabriks or something similar. I am not well enough to go and pull the Steyrs out of storage to see. Depending on the year it was made the writing changed as the company changed it's name over the years.

   Ahh I did a little searching on a Mannlicher forum and found this:-

Oesterreichische Waffenfabrik Gesellschaft, Steyr this is from 1905 and a Greek contract. Later it became Steyr Werke AG in 1930

Hope that helps a little.

[Bigboar]

Sorry for your loss, I have been fortunate to inherit 2 wonderful Mannlicher Schopenhauer rifles.  They are just great.  You are one fortunate fellow for you are the new owner of a classic rifle


Bigboar