Erfurt Gewehr 88/05 "S" Conversion, Ottoman-Marked 8mm Mauser Bolt-Action Rifle, 29.1 in Barrel (1891, Made in Germany)
This Erfurt-manufactured Gewehr 88 was built in 1891 and later updated to the 88/05 conversion to accept stripper clips, along with the S-conversion for the S-Patrone. It carries clear Ottoman military history, including an Arabic-numbered rear sight ladder and crescent moon property stamps. With its 29.1 inch barrel enclosed in the original barrel jacket and a 5-round internal magazine with a flush cover plate, this antique example combines German manufacture with documented Ottoman service features.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The original finish has transitioned to a uniform gray-brown patina. There is visible surface pitting on the barrel. The hardwood stock shows handling marks, dings, and scratches.
What’s Included
- Khaki web sling (installed)
Made in Germany at the Erfurt arsenal, this Gewehr 88 retains its crown/ERFURT/1891 crest and "Gew. 88." receiver wall marking, with an "S" on the receiver ring. Additional German inspection and gauge stamps include "15,2" and "W" on the left receiver ring. The receiver is steel, and the rifle uses the original barrel jacket system.
The 88/05 conversion adds stripper-clip loading and a flush magazine cover plate for the 5-round internal magazine. The S-conversion reflects the update to the S-Patrone standard. Barrel length is 29.1 inches, and the rifle is chambered in 8mm Mauser.
Ottoman service is indicated by the Arabic-numbered rear sight ladder and crescent moon property stamps on the bolt handle, safety lever, and cocking piece. These features align with the known history of German-supplied Gewehr 88s used in the Ottoman military.
Features include a full-length hardwood stock with steel buttplate, unit disc, and sling swivels, plus a tangent rear sight and a front sight set in a block at the muzzle. The action uses a wing safety. Length of pull measures 13.0 inches. Mixed serial numbers were observed.