Question Markings on my 1888 Hanyang. Ideas?

[yellowsled]

Thoughts on this Chinese relic? I do not believe the gun is in serviceable shape as it sits. Barrel seems loose, maybe it needs to be fitted and head spaced. idk... The markings on the stock is why I really bought it.

[gun toting monkeyboy]

They are very cool. The stock may be loose because of it's age. And I would have it checked out by a gunsmith before firing. The only picture I see is the markings on the stock, so I can't tell you anything more about the rifle. These were sometimes built on old German actions, sometimes made in small shops, or, more often, in the Hanyang arsenal. They are noted for being crude, but very servicable in good condidtion. I have always wanted one, but I have yet to find one in my price range in a condition that I like. Nice find.

-Mb

[tteng]

The middle oval's 4 characters (positioned at:12, 3, 6, 9 o'clock): 3-9 (right to left) reads 'river south' (or Henan province), 12-6 (top down) reads 'people soldier' (or home guard).

The bottom diamond's two rows: top row has three characters, (right to left) reads 'xinyang county'; bottom row has 2 characters, (right to left) reads 'public gun' (or government owned firearm).

Can't make out the rest.

[kwansao]

Dont shoot it, its a museum piece..

[yellowsled]

The middle oval's 4 characters (positioned at:12, 3, 6, 9 o'clock): 3-9 (right to left) reads 'river south' (or Henan province), 12-6 (top down) reads 'people soldier' (or home guard).

The bottom diamond's two rows: top row has three characters, (right to left) reads 'xinyang county'; bottom row has 2 characters, (right to left) reads 'public gun' (or government owned firearm).

Can't make out the rest.

wow, thanks! Incredibly cool you can translate that for me!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xinyang

[jeff762]

i thought it said "death to the white devils! rightous fists of harmony".

[yellowsled]

here is a few more pics..
First pic is the top cartouche




Next 2 are of the other side.





Last one is a m1930 FN contract chinese Mauser i have

[tteng]

Can't read your pictures.

Just noticed you're at Westminster, MD. I went to North Carroll HS, class of 83'.

[yellowsled]

you seem to love gun hating states. MD to Cali. lol

I moved here almost 10 years ago, in the Navy. Westminster is great, I live downtown right across the street from city hall.

[Capybara]

Cool stock markings. Post some pics of the whole rifle please!