"A very rare pre-production Europa Model 66 rifle in the configuration of the version presented in Nuremberg at 1965 IWA by Mauser-Werke AG Oberndorf am Neckar.
This 7x64 Brenneke Model 66, belongs to a small series of rifles produced during the second half of 1965 and proofed before their delivery in the very first months of 1966.
Although the overall appearance is very similar, these versions differ significantly from the first production run models in many ways typical of their configuration, similar to the prototypes developed by Walter Gehmann in the early 1960s.
There is, of course, no bolt stop as would be the case until the end of 1968, but the safety shroud is different and supports a three-position sliding mechanism whose knurled side pusher is milled by the middle.
The forged bolt handle is specific to this model, with a large root perpendicular to the bolt head. The sight rib, brazed onto the barrel, is reduced in length and supports a special folding rear sight engaged in a transverse dovetail.
Note the absence of markings on the right side of the telescopic receiver, while the flat area on the left side bears a single line: "Mauser-Werke AG Oberndorf aN Mod 66".
Incidentally, opening the mechanism reveals that the rails, like the magazine follower, are left blued, and that most of the heat-treated portions have changed color from dark blue black to a deep purple, as would be the case throughout almost the entire production period of the Model 66.
The 14¾" LOP stock, made of seasoned light colored French walnut, differs in the presence of an elegant schnabel ending the forend and a rosewood pistol grip cap, while the black composition buttplate with white spacer bears the factory brand's logo.
The double set trigger mechanism and its trigger guard are standard configurations, as are the Ø 6mm Allen screws.
Furthermore, this rifle is equipped with a beautiful optic from the same period, a fine Karl Kahles-Wien Helia Super 6-S1, 6x42 with n°8 reticle.
This scope is set on an exceptionally high-quality quick detachable claw mount, with thin half-rings welded to the glass steel tube and finely fitted to reduced Ferlacher Art-style bases.
Despite its sixty-year history, this untouched rifle is in surprisingly fresh condition.
The 24" 7x64 Brenneke barrel appears to have been fired sparingly, and while some discoloration can be seen on the original metal finish, the stock wood is perfect, retaining its flawless skip a line checkering and factory finish.
Weighing 7lb 4oz unscoped and 8lb 6oz with the Kahles fitted, and measuring just 41" overall, this pre-production Mauser Europa 66 remains one of the best-balanced rifles ever produced at the end of the 20th century."
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