M1891 Argentine Mauser

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	Weapon: M1891 Argentine Mauser Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: Argentina Year Adopted: 1891 Caliber: 7.65x53mm Action: Bolt-Action Overall Length (mm): 1235.0 Weight (kg): 3.00 Effective Range (m): 800

The M1891 Argentine Mauser rifle was designed by Paul Mauser and manufactured by Ludwig Loewe & Company in Germany for the Argentine military. Based on the Mauser Model 1889 action, the M1891 featured a straight bolt handle, a 5-round internal magazine, and chambered the 7.65x53mm Argentine cartridge, a rimless and bottlenecked round. Its design was highly innovative for the time, introducing an efficient charger-loading system and exceptional accuracy, which made it one of the most advanced bolt-action rifles of the late 19th century.

Production of the M1891 ran from 1891 to 1896, with an estimated 200,000 rifles and carbines manufactured. These weapons served as the standard issue for the Argentine Army and Navy, playing a critical role in modernizing the country's armed forces. Several variants, including shorter carbines for cavalry and engineers, were also produced to meet different operational needs. Despite its eventual replacement by the M1909 Argentine Mauser, the M1891 remained in service with reserve units and police forces for many years.

The M1891 Argentine Mauser is notable for its craftsmanship, reliability, and elegant design, including a distinctive Argentine crest on the receiver. Over time, it gained notoriety among collectors and historians for its historical significance and the quality of its German manufacture. Many examples were later exported to other countries or sold on the civilian market, where they continue to be prized for their accuracy and historical value. The rifle is a testament to the influence of Mauser designs on military firearms worldwide.