Chinese Type 24 Rifle (Chiang Kai-shek Rifle)中正式步枪

Chinese Type Zhongzheng Rifle (Chiang Kai-shek Rifle)中正式步枪 General Information:

• Model: Type Zhongzheng Rifle (Chiang Kai-shek Rifle), Republic of China
• Manufacturer: Mauser Werke (Germany)
• Caliber: 7.92×57mm Mauser
• Barrel Length: 23.5 inches (approx. 59.7 cm)
• Production Markings: Marked with “29” and a plum blossom emblem (“梅花”) on the left side of the barrel
• National Symbol: Receiver and barrel are marked with the Nationalist Chinese Star (Blue Sky with White Sun emblem)
• Receiver Marking: Prominently marked with “MAUSER” banner, indicative of German production or technical support for Chinese military arms

Configuration:

• Front Sight: Barleycorn type with ramp base
• Rear Sight: Adjustable U-notch type
• Bolt Handle: Turned down (late-war style)
• Stock: Two-piece full military hardwood stock, with pistol grip
• Handguard: Cracked, reinforced with a brass strip
• Stock Condition: Cracks present behind the receiver and ahead of the trigger guard; chipped at the toe; original steel buttplate and stock disk intact
• Bayonet Lug: Present
• Sling Mounts: Rear slot with front sling swivel
• Cleaning Rod: Missing

Condition & Wear:

• Metal Finish: Shows areas of light pitting, oxidation speckles, surface scratches, and handling wear; original blued finish remains largely intact
• Wood Condition: Evident dents, scuffs, and handling marks consistent with field use; no signs of post-production refinishing or modern alterations

Collectibility & Historical Significance:

• Matching Serial Numbers: Receiver and stock match, confirming original issue configuration — a significant factor for collectors
• Clear Mauser Banner: Indicates early production or German-standard export rifle, highly sought after production during the later stages of the Second Sino-Japanese War
• National Emblems Intact: Reinforces its historical connection to the Chinese Nationalist military
• No Signs of Post-War Rework or Major Corrosion: Structurally sound, exhibiting only expected aging and wear

Evaluation CriteriaRating (out of 5)

Historical Value★★★★★

Condition & Integrity★★★★☆

Collector Appeal★★★★☆

Rarity★★★☆☆

Summary:

This rifle represents a textbook example of a late-production Zhongzheng rifle used by the Chinese Nationalist forces during the Second Sino-Japanese War. With matching serial numbers, clear German Mauser markings, and distinct Republic of China production symbols, it holds strong appeal for military historians, collectors of WWII-era firearms, and those interested in Chinese wartime industry. While showing honest wear and minor structural flaws, the rifle maintains overall integrity and originality, making it a compelling acquisition in the field of historical firearms