SOLD - Excellent & Early - Mauser Red 9 (C96)

4/17/17 - This is an excellent and original Mauser C96, also known as a Red 9.  It has about 97-98% of its original bluing, making it one of the nicest we've had come through the office in recent memory.  It is all matching and correct, including the grips.  The serial is 7008, and given there were about 140,000 of these manufactured, starting at S/N 1, this is one of the earlier Red 9's you'll see any time soon!  Other than common edge wear, the only notable spot of wear is on the underside of the barrel, and this is exactly where it would obtain wear from sitting in a stock.  The grips have the number 9 cut into them, and filled with red paint.  This was done to distinguish between the M1896/16 and the M1896/12.  Because the added red 9 was accomplished by various regimental armorers in the field during war time, it varies in size, color and quality.  This pistol has a minty bore with no issues to mention.  Another pistol that would be tough to upgrade!