Mausers Question

[Gil Martin]

Downwindtracker2,
It depends, but both rifles you describe merit closer inspection. The first rifle by FN began its life in Belgium and if made in 1904 is probably a Model '98 Mauser action. You did not say, but if the barrel is original and if so it should be a 7x57mm Mauser caliber. The second rifle is a German '98 Mauser infantry rifle from WWI that has been rebarreled to .270. These are desirable arms and depending on the condition of the bore and other features can be real bargains. Sporterized Mauser rifles usually bring low resale prices around here unless there is something unique or special about the arm.

My recommendation would be to return to the shop soon, look over these rifles carefully, check the bores, stocks, bluing, look for altered bolt handles, replacement safeties and note if they are drilled and tapped for scope bases. Then if you really like them, offer a modest price and either buy or put them on lay-away. Better yet, tell me where the shop it and I will handle this (just kidding). All the best...
Gil