Mauser C96

The Mauser C96 is a German semi-automatic pistol introduced in 1896 and manufactured by Mauser until 1937.

The Mauser C96 is a German semi-automatic pistol introduced in 1896 and manufactured by Mauser until 1937. It is known for its distinctive broomhandle grip, integral box magazine, and wooden shoulder stock that also served as a holster. The design was widely copied and saw military and civilian use in multiple countries.

Design and features

The Mauser C96 is a blowback-operated semi-automatic pistol with a fixed internal magazine in front of the trigger and a long barrel. Its broomhandle grip and detachable wooden stock made it unusually distinctive among early self-loading handguns.

Development and production

The pistol was developed in the mid-1890s by the Feederle brothers and manufactured by Mauser beginning in 1896. It remained in production until 1937 and existed in multiple variants, including later 9mm models.

Military and civilian use

The C96 saw extensive use in military conflicts and was exported or copied for use in several countries. Although it was not adopted as a standard sidearm by one major army, it became widely recognised and used in service worldwide.

Variants and copies

The C96 appeared in numerous variants, including the M712 Schnellfeuer select-fire version. Licensed and unlicensed copies were produced abroad, especially in Spain and China.