Thought I'd share my latest project.
I bought an original Mauser Oberndorf Sporter Model B from a member who was across the country. Before buying it, I was told it was in decent shape. When it showed up... well, that wasn't exactly the case. The bore was pretty rough, it was chambered in 8x57J, the front sight was literally held in with a piece of tinfoil wedged under it, and there were a few other "surprises." I was pretty disappointed, especially considering what I'd paid. To make matters worse, the seller ghosted me afterwards.
That said, it was my first original Oberndorf sporter, and I just couldn't bring myself to part with it. After staring at it in the safe for a couple of months, I figured if it wasn't going to be an original collector piece, I might as well turn it into something I'd actually enjoy shooting.
I decided on the 10.75×68 (.423 Mauser). It's one of those classic cartridges that's mostly been forgotten, but I've always loved its history. Plus, who doesn't like a big-bore Mauser? I also already have a 404 Jeffery.
Getting everything together took a bit of digging. I sourced CH4D dies, Bertram brass, Woodleigh load data, and bullets came from my .404 Jeffery stash, along with a few 347-grain Woodleighs I'd been hanging onto.
There's still a bit left to do—mostly refinishing the stock—but I'm really happy with how it's coming together. The original factory peep sight is still there and pops off easily if I want to use the express sights. Up front I installed a now-discontinued NECG Holland & Holland-style front sight with the flip-up night bead, which I think suits the rifle perfectly.
I've only cycled dummy rounds so far, but the rifle feeds like an absolute dream.
Now comes the fun part: working up loads, getting it to the range, and finally taking this old Oberndorf back into the field where it belongs.
I bought an original Mauser Oberndorf Sporter Model B from a member who was across the country. Before buying it, I was told it was in decent shape. When it showed up... well, that wasn't exactly the case. The bore was pretty rough, it was chambered in 8x57J, the front sight was literally held in with a piece of tinfoil wedged under it, and there were a few other "surprises." I was pretty disappointed, especially considering what I'd paid. To make matters worse, the seller ghosted me afterwards.
That said, it was my first original Oberndorf sporter, and I just couldn't bring myself to part with it. After staring at it in the safe for a couple of months, I figured if it wasn't going to be an original collector piece, I might as well turn it into something I'd actually enjoy shooting.
I decided on the 10.75×68 (.423 Mauser). It's one of those classic cartridges that's mostly been forgotten, but I've always loved its history. Plus, who doesn't like a big-bore Mauser? I also already have a 404 Jeffery.
Getting everything together took a bit of digging. I sourced CH4D dies, Bertram brass, Woodleigh load data, and bullets came from my .404 Jeffery stash, along with a few 347-grain Woodleighs I'd been hanging onto.
There's still a bit left to do—mostly refinishing the stock—but I'm really happy with how it's coming together. The original factory peep sight is still there and pops off easily if I want to use the express sights. Up front I installed a now-discontinued NECG Holland & Holland-style front sight with the flip-up night bead, which I think suits the rifle perfectly.
I've only cycled dummy rounds so far, but the rifle feeds like an absolute dream.
Now comes the fun part: working up loads, getting it to the range, and finally taking this old Oberndorf back into the field where it belongs.
