Next stupid question: What's a broomhandle?
 

I've seen the pictures, but what is it? I'm not finding much information on the web...

Do a web search under Mauser broomhandle, or c96 Mauser. That should get you there.
And dump that awful photo. Creepy...
dju

Zorm,

"Broomhandle" is a C96 Mauser, so called because the grip looks like, what else, a broomhandle. Search "C96 Mauser."

Best regards,

Gunny John

Initially, I had the same question. It has nothing to do with cleaning tool, does it? Later, I read a web page, a gun collector summarized the nickname well, "Why they call this thing a Broomhandle I don't know. Its an insult to the ergonomics of a broom......." He spoke out my feeling.

Here is this page. Enjoy.

http://www.ignomini.com/guns/pistolpage.html

This site has alot of good information that might help.
http://www.g6csy.net/c96/index.html

Alvin
I have to agree with you on the poor handling characteristics of a "Broomhandle" Mauser pistol, a real broom has better balance.:eek:
However,attach the shoulder stock and everything changes.
Great balance,easy to aim,controllable recoil and very accurate.(depending on barrel condition,of course).
I am sure that is why the c96 was originally called "System Mauser".:rockon:

Bob

But very tricky to hold the stock grip juncture without serious hammer bite, if you have large hands.

The "correct" way of holding C96 with stock attached is using the weaker hand supporting the magazine well, and the thumb of the stronger hand putting on same side of other four fingers, so web won't wrap around the back of the grip. I heard the trick from someone else and that works well for me.

Yes, that is how I eventually learned to fire mine. Always the hard way.

okay sport, I am not very convinced that a simple search of the word broomhandle would not find much on the web.

:rolleyes: