7.62mm NATO-Converted Ludwig Loewe Chilean Mauser

An unusual 7.62mm NATO arsenal-converted Ludwig Loewe Chilean contract Mauser. (Originally a 7mm Mauser, but it went back to the arsenal  for re-barreling in the 1960s.) Serial # D724X makes its date of manufacture circa late 1896 or early 1897.  As is typical of re-arsenalized Mausers, the numbers are mismatched.  Metal surfaces rate very good (with bluing mostly gone to gray), with crisp factory markings and an intact Chilean crest. Has typical marring and handling marks to wood. Cleaning rod is present, but the number is mismatched to the receiver. Bluing is good overall. (See photos.) Has as sharp Chilean crest on receiver and a faint cartouche on stock. Has a correct “7.62 N”-marked receiver. Nice shootable bore. Standard infantry pattern straight bolt. Less than 2% of Chilean Mauser full-length rifles were arsenal-converted to 7.62mmm NATO. I rarely get these in stock, and given the desirable chambering they usually sell immediately. Have a qualified gunsmith check this rifle and advise you on the types of ammo that are safe to shoot. (UHNB-950)