Chilean Mauser in 308

[Wicked Pete]

Some years back (Big 5), I purchased as a Relic. I was told by the salesperson (I must comment that some clerks are NOT genius') Told me it was not re-bored to 308, if was made by Mauser to fit that round, and a rare item.

This is the "best" shooter, very long barrel. I put on an after market stock; fit right on. Blade sites, great for the long shot.

Anyone know for sure; the history of these "Chilean Mausers"? Anyone have one?

[dfletcher]

Some years back (Big 5), I purchased as a Relic. I was told by the salesperson (I must comment that some clerks are NOT genius') Told me it was not re-bored to 308, if was made by Mauser to fit that round, and a rare item.

This is the "best" shooter, very long barrel. I put on an after market stock; fit right on. Blade sites, great for the long shot.

Anyone know for sure; the history of these "Chilean Mausers"? Anyone have one?

I had one, they're not rare. I think I paid $80.00 about 10 years ago. Not sure how they became 308 chambered - new barrel, rebore or what. IIRC there was a fairly long thread here about the mechanics of doing the job.

BTW, the Chlean Mauser (1893 or 1895) were made in, rather obviously, the 1890s - the 308 (7.62 NATO) came out in the 1950s.

[Sailormilan2]

Chile rebarreled and recalibered many of their Mausers to 308/7.62 NATO around 1961. On several of the actions I have seen(1912 Steyr made 98s), they used 1903 Springfield barrels. To do this, they had to cut off and rethread the threaded shank, and then rechamber. The exteriors were also turned down to Mauser style stepped barrel contours. I have seen 2 groove and 4 groove barrels on these actions.

[Wicked Pete]

Damn, I thought I had a rare item. Shoots nice. Good Mauser action, and I like the 308 cartridge. A keeper.