After WWI, many M95 rifles were transferred to Bulgaria as reparations. Bulgaria then extensively reworked them in the 1930s and again in the 1950s. During a for a Bulgarian rework, you will often see:
The Steyr Model 1895 (M95) straight-pull rifle is a cornerstone of military firearms history. For collectors, historians, and shooting enthusiasts, holding an M95 is like holding a tangible piece of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. But for many, the rifle remains a mystery until its story is unlocked through its markings.
Generate a PDF "Collector's Sheet" with:
If your serial number is illegible, mismatched, or absent (e.g., Israeli or Spanish Civil War import), use these secondary dating clues: steyr m95 serial number lookup
Combine these with even a partial serial number (the first 3 digits) to narrow down to a 2-3 year window.
To find the age and history of your rifle, look for these key markings: 1. The Date Stamp (Acceptance Mark)
No complete official Steyr M95 serial number registry exists. This tool aggregates known historical data, collector reports, and published references (e.g., "The Steyr M95" by Paul Scarlata). Results are estimates, not factory records. Always consult a qualified firearms historian for authentication. After WWI, many M95 rifles were transferred to
| Marking | Country | | :--- | :--- | | (or OEWG) on receiver ring | Austrian-made | | FÉG or Budapest stamp | Hungarian-made | | Crest of Bulgaria (rampant lion) | Bulgarian contract/post-war issue | | Yugoslavian Communist star | Partisan or post-WWII rebuild | | German eagle (Reichsadler) over S | German rework (WWII occupation) |
, which indicate the rifle was sold to or used by Bulgaria, a common fate for many M95s.
If there is a large "S" or "H" stamped over this area, it may partially obscure the original date. 2. Manufacturer Codes To find the age and history of your
During serial number lookup, the presence of a or crown over “K” tells you the rifle was accepted into the Austro-Hungarian arsenal. If you see a “FéG” or a Budapest proof mark, your rifle is Hungarian-made (Fegyver- és Gépgyár Részvénytársaság in Budapest).
on the barrel shank for the exact year. Verify the caliber by looking for the "S" or "H" stamp. Examine the buttplate for unit history markings.
Note: Real M95 serial numbers are not sequentially universal by prefix alone — this is a simplified illustrative structure.
If there is no S or H, your rifle might still be in the original 8x50mmR Mannlicher caliber. Do not attempt to fire 8x56mmR ammo in an original 8x50mmR rifle. 🏛️ Unit Markings on the Buttplate