I am looking at an M96 in 6.5x54. I am fairly certain Mannlicher Schoenauer built some of these as sporting rifles on the M96 action. I would like to confirm that all M96 actions were not originally military rifles? Did Mauser or MS make any M96 actions as original sporting rifles?

If anyone knows the answer, and can further direct me to a resource that documents this, it would be appreciated.

I am attempting to import this rifle and ATF is saying it is a military rifle or at least a sporterized military rifle, therefore requiring a specialzed FFL to import it.

Many thanks for any help.

Is this a M1896 Mauser action chambered for 6.5x54mm Mauser or Mannlicher cartridge? The earliest Mannlicher-Schoenauer chambered for the 6.5x54mm Mannlicher cartridge is the M1900, which has the spool magazine. The Steyr factory did not make sporters on any actions except their own, although they did manufacture Mauser action rifles for military contracts. What is the inscription on the left side of the receiver, and on top of the receiver ring? Is the bolt a Mauser style (handle at the rear), or Mannlicher, (handle in the middle) Those questions should settle the identification of this rifle.

LLS
Mannlicher Collector