FN Mauser 1909

FN Herstal · Rifle · Discontinued · 1909

Also known as: Mauser Modelo Argentino 1909, FN Modele 1909, Mauser 1909

Overview

The FN Mauser 1909 is a Gewehr 98-pattern bolt-action service rifle chambered in 7.65x53mm Mauser, built by Fabrique Nationale of Herstal, Belgium, as the export counterpart to the German DWM-made Argentine Model 1909. It uses the classic Mauser controlled-round-feed action with a five-round internal magazine fed by stripper clips, a three-position wing safety, and a tangent leaf rear sight graduated to 2,000 metres. FN supplied these rifles and their carbine versions to numerous South American and other militaries in the early 20th century.

Specifications

Weight (empty)4170 g (147.1 oz)
Overall Length1240 mm (48.82")
Barrel Length740 mm (29.13")
Action TypeBolt Action
Firing MechanismStriker Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Action
Magazine Capacity5 rounds
Magazine TypeInternal Box
Muzzle Velocity840 m/s (2756 fps)
Effective Range500 m (547 yd)
Maximum Range2000 m (2187 yd)
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist240 mm (9.45")
Number of Grooves4
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWalnut
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Variants

Service history

Operators

Production

Production years: 1909-1959

DWM delivered roughly 200,000 rifles for the Argentine contract; FN Herstal produced additional rifles and carbines for export markets.

Origin

Country of origin: Belgium

Designer: Paul Mauser

Discontinued: 1959

Notes

The Model 1909 family was produced both by DWM in Germany and by FN in Belgium, with later refurbishment and assembly in Argentina by Fabrica Militar de Armas Portatiles. Carbine and cavalry variants featured a shorter barrel and turned-down bolt handle.

Background

The Model 1909 was Argentina's standard infantry rifle for decades and remained in second-line and ceremonial service long after newer designs appeared, prized by collectors for its high-quality pre-war Mauser action.