This new sniper rifle was designated the M/41 In the years of 1941-1943, about 5,300 1896 rifles were specially selected for their accuracy to be converted into sniper rifles. So, Sweden did as many other countries have done before and took their proven infantry rifle and mounted an optic to it. Though Sweden remained neutral in both world wars, in the early 1940’s with the onslaught of WWII beginning to surround them, it was identified that they were lacking in the area of sniper rifles which their neighboring Fins were using to great effect against the Russians in the Winter War.

The 1896 has a military two-stage trigger, a 5 round internal magazine, 29” (737mm) barrel, with an over length of 49.6” (1260mm) and weight of 8.8 lbs (4.0 kg). The Model 1896 chambered in 6.5×55 was adopted by the Swedes in 1896 for infantry use and production was started in 1898 at Carl Gustafs factory. An interesting note is that whether manufactured in Germany or Sweden all Swedish Mausers were made with Swedish supplied high-grade material known for its strength, durability and corrosion resistance. All Swedish Mausers were manufactured by one of three companies: Mauser, Germany Carl Gustafs, Sweden or Husqvarna, Sweden. Those Mauser designs were later exported and licensed to several different countries, Sweden being one of those that lead to the 1896 Swedish Mauser. It is common knowledge that the Mauser is as a German arms company that designed and built many different bolt action rifles and semiauto pistols since the 1870s. The m/41 and m/41B sniper rifle we are discussing here is a variant of the family of Swedish Mausers. This was the rifle that introduced the world to the very capable and successful 6.5x55mm Swedish Mauser cartridge and frankly, the ultra popular long range 6.5 Creedmoor is somewhat just a modern interpretation of the 6.5 Swede. When it comes to legendary military rifles that have a reputation of extremely well made quality, the Swedish Mauser of 1896 will be on the list.

Husqvarna swedish mauser serial numbers