Forums.NitroExpress.com

This is the Model 1924, also called the "Sequoia model". After WW1 the Steyr factory made a contract with the American importer Sequoia for 1000 such rifles in 30-06. Apparently the deal fell through, as no serial numbers markedly above 500 are known. So 327 is not a low number, but a high one for this model, mine is 299. Not all 500 rifles made it to the USA, several remaining in stock at the Steyr factory. For some years Steyr offered them at a 10% discount, together with the Mod. 1925 in 7x64 and 8x60.
The M24 was the first Mannlicher-Schoenauer model made for a non-proprietary, longer cartridge. As such it was the first with a cartridge guide ring inside the magazine that hold the cartridges close to the rotating magazine follower. But, other than in the later M-Sch actions from the M1925 on, this guide ring is around the bullets instead of the case necks.
Distinguishing features of the M24 from the later M25, that was also offered in 30-06, 9.3x62, 10.75x68 and other chamberings in due time:
The foreend is a bit shorter in front of the stirrup sling swivel (missing on this rifle). The M1924s all have this unique "express" rear sight with 3 folding leaves and no standing. The M25 reverted to the usual M-Sch rear sight with one standing and one folding leaf. The open rear sight is the the easiest to spot feature to distinguish a M-Sch .30-06 M24 from a M25.

The aftermarket Niedner side mount is not the only fault of the rifle offered on gunbroker. The original stirrup sling swivel is missing, replaced with a common one screwed into the wood. On the plus side, it has the rare factory option tang peep sight.
Here is (again) my M24 #299. It apparently never left Europe. Some years ago it came to me with the then factory optional Kahles "Heliavier" scope mounted with Vienna - style snap mounts. The mount too is 299 numbered to the rifle. As the professional dealer had mislabelled it on an egun internet auction, it set me back Euro 320.-, about US$ 430.-, including shipping.

Post Extras