The editor of SA JAGTER/ HUNTER magazine regularly receives enquiries from readers regarding the identification and history of Oberndorf Mauser .22 rimfire bolt-action rifles in their possession. Quite often, these rifles are family heirlooms of sentimental value, inherited from their fathers or grandfathers. In order to assist, this article is intended to give a brief overview of the different models of Mauser .22 rimfire rifles most frequently encountered in South Africa, and to highlight their pertinent features. Determining the exact model of Mauser rimfire rifle is not always that straightforward for the average owner, as Mauser never marked these rifles with model designations.
Admittedly, this overview is by no means complete and does not attempt to cover all models and all technical aspects of all Mauser .22 rimfires – that would be a huge endeavour. In addition, Mauser .22 rimfire military training rifles such as the DSM 34 are specifically excluded from this article. For a more complete overview of Mauser .22 rimfire rifles, interested readers are referred to the excellent book Mauser Smallbores by Jon Speed.
Compared to other countries, South Africa is blessed with an abundance of Mauser .22 rimfire rifles
