Indische Ondernemersbond FN Mauser

[Greasemonkey]

It's a strange looking beast, made by FN, and it's still in 8mm. It's a contract rifle and IOB stands for Indische Ondernemersbond, or Federation of East Indian Entrepreneurs. The barrel is just a hair under 17 1/2 inches long, the stock was modified to this change. From what I can understand, it was used initially by Dutch plantation owners, then evolved into a Police Carbine in the East Indies. As I have found out 2 lots marked IOB were made, one lot in 1948 and the next lot in 1949, each lot consisting of 3000 rifles. Then a later lot was made/delivered without the IOB crest and were marked POLITIE, est. number of 20,000. Through time some of these weapons were converted to 7.62 Nato. So this is a pretty uncommon Mauser, based on the serial number, it's from the first batch in 1948. Also, no parts other than the bolt and receiver have a serial number, the bolt is close, but doesn't match, and it's import date is hard to say, as there is no import stamp or mark.   

[Phosphorus32]

Sweet! A rare bird indeed      This one looks to be in very good condition. It's common for them to have pitting at the wood line from years in a humid equatorial environment.  Those Dutch East Indies plantation owners had to band together to protect their rubber(s)

Congratulations!  Might want to book an appointment for shoulder surgery before firing 



P.S. I had an IOB in my hands about 15 months ago but: 1. it arrived with a stock cracked 98% through the wrist; 2. it was in 7mm, perhaps a Mexican M1924 barrel on an IOB receiver I didn't keep it.  Now I have one of the unmarked ones on the way
 

[running-man]

That's an awesome get GM!  Very neat little carbine. 

[Loose}{Cannon]

Weird critter!     Interesting hustory.