Noticed a pre-war type B Mauser online with a "shot out" barrel. Beyond the condition of the bore, the gun is in good condition and has an octagon barrel that would be a shame to replace. If one were to retain the original barrel what could this be rebored/rechambered to? And who is currently doing this type of work?

Thanks in advance,

Lee

Most folks reboring want to go up at least two calibers, so, it would seem that a .375 would be the smallest you could go to.

z1r,

Thank you for your response.

To add more detail to my question, is there a period correct cartridge, chambered by Mauser, that this could be rebored/rechambered to?

Lee

I would look to the 9.5x56/57, I believe the chamber will clean up the original. Or, go big and go 10.75x57.

If the barrel is not physically damaged, or the lands are not practically gone. I would like to suggest something to you before you send the rifle for reboring if you buy it. Clean that barrel like your life depended on it. Spend a few nights cleaning it. Some “shot out barrels” still have a serviceable life in them. You may not get match rifle accuracy but if it puts it's shots into four (4) inches or less, it is still a good hunting rifle out to two hundred (200) yards or so. And it would be in original condition.
You can make yourself a Homemade Electronic Bore Cleaner, see link below:

http://thisoldrifle.com/reviews/copperout/index.asp

You would be surprised at how much gunk this little gadget gets out after you thought you had a clean barrel.

Then of course you will have to splurge on a die set for 9x57 (not cheap). Try different bullets and powder loads. Who knows you may have a nice shooter in your hands.

Also be careful about reboring, sometimes a barrel is damaged by the process. Don’t remember what the loss rate is but I think is something like 1 in 10?? Talk to a reputable guy on this before you commit to doing it.

I also have a 9x57 cigarette? rifle. Thin barrel at the muzzle. Bad bore. I think the barrel is too thin to rebore.