Everything I know about the Broomhandle I learned from Joe Kidd. Well, not really. I've been reading over at 1896mauser.com and know a bit about what I've got. But I'd bet someone here can tell me more. This is my first foray into the world of old pistols.
Last Tuesday I swung by a pawn shop. I was looking to pick up a G21 since I built a G20 longslide and have no frame to mount it on. Instead I picked up the C-96 for $600 plus tax. I should be able to find another G21 on any day, at any time, in any gun store. So I think I can wait on that one.
It came with no accessories like clips, cleaning rod or holster. All of the numbers match on the metal parts. The grips must be aftermarket since I don't think they every made Red-9 Bolo grips. It is a post-war Bolo. The serial number is 592,xxx. N. A. RDGFLD N.J. is stamped on the bottom of the barrel. I've been told that this means it was imported by Navy Arms between 1921 and 1930.
It is chambered in 9mm Luger. The bore is in good shape with very clean looking 6 groove rifling. I am guessing it was most likely a 7.63x25 chambered weapon that was bored out to 9mm to clean up the bore but I really don't know. The sight is calibrated to 1000 meters.
The top picture is pretty true to the color. The bottom picture, not so much.