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  1. #11
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    How did these rifles get into the UDF arsenal? Were they rifles surrendered by von Lettow-Vorbeck at the end of WW1?
    Don’t take life too seriously, no one gets out alive.

  2. #12
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    Quote Originally Posted by CorditeCrazy View Post
    How did these rifles get into the UDF arsenal? Were they rifles surrendered by von Lettow-Vorbeck at the end of WW1?
    The UDF (SA Union Defence Force) bought 20 000 of these rifles from the Portuguese in 1915 as they did not have enough 303 Lee Enfields to equip all their troops.

  3. #13
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    I must say that I do sometimes become fascinated by the history of FA's, such as these - if only they could speak.

  4. #14
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    Quote Originally Posted by A-R View Post
    The UDF (SA Union Defence Force) bought 20 000 of these rifles from the Portuguese in 1915 as they did not have enough 303 Lee Enfields to equip all their troops.
    Ah thanks AR, a have found one and am thinking of adding it to my collection. What would be a fair asking price?
    Don’t take life too seriously, no one gets out alive.

  5. #15
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    The hammer prices of the last four to be sold on the Classic Arms Auctions were respectively R 4750, R 3250, R 2750 and R2750. Probably influenced by condition. To these can be added buyer's commission.

  6. #16
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    Thank you Terry
    Don’t take life too seriously, no one gets out alive.

  7. #17
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    If you do happen to pick one up, make sure to share some pictures :).

    Terry, is there a five digit number under the UDF marking on the butt plate tang of your rifle ? If so, I am curious what it is as I have an interest in tracking these as well.

  8. #18
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    The number accompanying the UDF stamp on the butt plate is 16192. I attach a photo of an original 6.5mm military cartridge. It is dated 1911 and thus probably one of those which accompanied the batch of 20,000 rifles.
    Attachment 32056

  9. #19
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    Wow that is very cool to have along with the rifle! I read that most of the rounds were condemned for split case necks and bullets that were falling out, how is your 1911 example ? Would you happen to have a picture of the head stamp ?

  10. #20
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    Default Re: Portuguese 1904 DMGLM and Union of SA Rifles Survey

    This particular cartridge appears to be fine. There were basically three problems with the Portuguese Mauser which fortunately became apparent during the 1914 rebellion before the main invasion: It had a fragile bolt which was also difficult to reassemble and, as stated, the ammunition was faulty.

    Attachment 32062

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