Mannlicher-Schoenauer 1908
Oesterreichische Waffenfabriks-Gesellschaft (Steyr) · Rifle · Discontinued · 1908
Also known as: Mannlicher-Schoenauer Model 1908, M-S 1908, Mannlicher-Schoenauer 1908 Carbine
Overview
The Mannlicher-Schoenauer 1908 is an Austrian bolt-action sporting rifle chambered for the 8x56mm Mannlicher-Schoenauer cartridge. Built on the celebrated Mannlicher-Schoenauer action with Otto Schoenauer's spool-type rotary magazine, it was offered most often as a full-stocked carbine with a slim 19.75-inch barrel, flat butterknife bolt handle, two-leaf rear sight and a double set trigger. Prized by hunters for its exceptionally smooth action and fine handling, it remained a benchmark of European sporting-rifle quality until production was interrupted by the Second World War.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3040 g (107.2 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1010 mm (39.76") |
| Barrel Length | 502 mm (19.76") |
| Action Type | Bolt Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Striker Fired |
| Trigger Type | Set Trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Fixed Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 661 m/s (2169 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2854 J (2105 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3000 m (3281 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Number of Grooves | 4 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 8x56mm Mannlicher-Schoenauer · primary — also known as 8x56 M-S, 8x56mm MS, 8x56 Mannlicher-Schoenauer
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Internal Rotary Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Wing Safety
- Features: Rotary Magazine, Full Length Stock, Double Set Trigger, Butterknife Bolt Handle, Two Leaf Rear Sight
Service history
Operators
- Civilian hunters and sportsmen · adopted 1908
Production
Production years: 1908-1939
Produced at Steyr by Oesterreichische Waffenfabriks-Gesellschaft; civilian sporting production interrupted by the Second World War.
Origin
Country of origin: Austria
Designer: Ferdinand Ritter von Mannlicher and Otto Schoenauer
Discontinued: 1939
Notes
The 8x56 M-S chambering was one of several larger-bore options offered on the Model 1908; the same model was also produced in 7x57mm and other calibers. Not to be confused with the rimmed 8x56mmR Steyr military cartridge used in the M95 service rifle.
Background
The Mannlicher-Schoenauer action paired Ferdinand Mannlicher's smooth bolt with Otto Schoenauer's rotary spool magazine, and the resulting sporting rifles earned a near-legendary reputation among hunters worldwide for their slick cycling and accuracy, with Ernest Hemingway among their admirers.