Book review: Mauser Military Rifles of the World, by Robert Ball

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The name I use here (Carteach) is not chosen by chance. It's actually what I do.... instructor for an automotive technical program. As such, I review text books constantly, and write purchase orders for over $5,000 of such every year. Doing that for years on end has led me to appreciate a well written and researched reference book... and that is exactly what Mauser Military Rifles of the World is.

This Fifth Edition marks the third volume of the book I have purchased. Each new edition adds material, images, and details that make it worth the expenditure. They. Just. Keep. Getting. Better.

Mr. Ball's book runs down the world of Mauser military rifles nation by nation, offering details on each version listed (which is a vast number). Unlike many firearm reference books, Ball's has some of the best photography I've ever seen. Important details are displayed in stunning clarity, making identification far easier than when working solely from written word, or drawings.

I bought my first edition of Mauser Military Rifles of the World when I got my first Mauser, and needed to know more. Not only did I learn important (to me) information on my new purchase, but also had my eyes opened to a universe of collectable Mauser rifles I didn't know existed. These rifles made such an impact on the world that they changed history, and are arguably one of the most important military weapons designed in the last two hundred years. Ball's book traces that development through each countries choices in arming their troops. Few nations failed to adopt Mr. Mauser's design, and even the United States own Springfield and 1917 Enfield owe most of their heritage to the Mauser blood line.

The photos that follow illustrate the point regarding this books brilliant and detailed images. The pages were chosen at random, and represent what the reader typically sees as pages are turned.

Carteach rates this book: The primary book for Mauser enthusiasts and collectors.