The M48 Mauser is a post World War II Yugoslavian version of the Belgian Fabrique Nationale designed Mauser model 1924 short rifle which was produced under contract by the “Kingdom of Yugoslavia” beginning in 1928 and ending with the Nazi occupation in 1941. After World War II, the Yugoslavs took this design and incorporated modifications based upon Germany’s Mauser Karabiner 98k. Although similar in general appearance to that of the German rifle, many of the parts of these two rifles are not interchangeable, especially the bolt and related action parts. The main difference between the M48 and the K98k is that the M48 uses an intermediate-length receiver. They are usually easily identified by the top handguard, which extends behind the rear sight and ends just in front of the receiver ring, although this feature exists on other models as well.There are three main versions.
- M48: 1950-1952. The initial version of the M48, with full crest and all machined steel parts.
- M48A: 1952-1956- Inclusion of stamped parts: sheet metal stampings used for the magazine floor plate.
- M48B: 1956-1965- Additional sheet metal stampings incorporated. The most critical factor to understand about this model is that it continued to be stamped on the receiver ring M48A. There was no change in markings. The most significant change and external appearance whereby the M48B may be identified is the trigger guard. The new trigger guard has a rib running around the exterior of both sides.
The M48 is chambered for the powerful 7.92x57mm cartridge and, being a carbine, has a considerable recoil – which is not helped by the steel buttplate. It is, however, very robust with more than acceptable accuracy for a military rifle.