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The front sling swivel looks like it could be a later fitment. I would assume the sling swivel would have been with the barrel band which runs through the forend.

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I thought the same thing, but couldn't figure out how they'd install the front one...isn't the front sight ramp integral with the barrel?

In the spirit of "nothing ventured, nothing gained" I decided to buy the rifle (after confirming the standard inspection period). The price is low if it's a commercial factory Mauser. If not, I'll be out some shipping charges. Either way I should be able to post more details and photos in the next week...maybe we'll learn something.

You may be right that it's an African. Looking through Speed's book tonight I noticed he shows an early African model in this style (military floorplate, double triggers, rounded pistol grip, and "flats" on the side of the stock) and mentions that the horn schnabel was an option.

The rear peep sight is the most curious thing. I didn't see any mention of a factory integral peep in Speed's book, the Hoffman design flip-up peep being the closest thing I could find.

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