#669 Portuguese Mauser-Kropatschek M1886/89..The Mauser-Kropatschek is perhaps one of the finest, most well made rifles of its generation, with an incredibly smooth action throughout, and this example is no exception. Manipulating the bolt is as smooth as silk and trigger pull and let off of the trigger is crisp and clean. The rifle is complete, with original cleaning rod. Some of these rifles were later designated for colonial service and fitted with a top hand guard, which is usually not present. This is one of those rifles that almost certainly saw colonial service in Portugal’s colonies. Originally chambered for a black powder cartridge, it was updated to a smokeless cartridge by the alteration of the rear sight, extending its range. The metal is smooth and in very nice condition with 50% blue remaining on the barrel and receiver and with bolt parts finished in the white. The stock has good cartouches showing on both sides. Like almost all Portuguese Kropatscheks, especially the colonial, the bolt group serial numbers don’t match the barreled receiver and stock, which do match each other. This is how Portuguese Kropatscheks are found. The bore is excellent and this rifle is eminently shootable as well as being an important variation for the 19th century collector.