Mauser Test Report of Beechwood Stocks for the DSM
Although I have never observed one, attached is the original Mauser Oberndorf document with results of testing beech as an alternative stock material for the Deutsches Sportmodell. Also a complete English translation with special thanks to my brother Steve for that.
As many of you know, Mauser did use elm for DSM stocks late in production. At the time "Mauser Small Bores" was published we were of the opinion this was oak and stocks referred to in that reference as Oak are in fact elm. Thanks to Bruce Karem for the testing done on the Oberndorf stocks of that same time frame.
Translation follows:
Technical Directive 1
In reference to correspondence of 10 November 1934 concerning the D.S.M. serial number 7343 with beech wood stock.
During the period of 12 - 29 November, firearm was daily stored overnight in cold climate of attic space. Moreover, prior to placing it into storage on the 26th, 27th, 28th and 29th, it was sprayed thoroughly with water; on the mornings of the 28th and 29th November this resulted in the rifle being encrusted with ice. Throughout the daytime the rifle was kept in close proximity to a heat source, and further was daily subjected to extensive handling, during which one's hands repeatedly became so soiled that laying the firearm down momentarily was unavoidable.
As the pictures taken daily show (see photos 1-15), accuracy of shots was not affected. Also, grouping size remained unchanged. See also the photo from 30th November (photo 16), taken after completion of testing on the shooting machine. By this time the wood stain on the stock shows deterioration.
During handling in the first three days, all personnel experienced soiling of hands and clothing from bleeding of the wood stain, and light spots were already evident on the stock from the first day.
The stain finish was especially affected when the firearm was handled with heavily soiled hands.
All in all, the test showed that beech wood can be used for stocks without danger of warping, and that a finish of wood stain enhances the durability of the stock, and would be even further improved by the application of a final varnish treatment.