Mexican Bolt Action Rifles: 1897 - 1965

This book delves into the various bolt-action rifle models used in Mexico during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a particular focus on Mauser rifles produced from 1895 to 1954. Under Porfirio Díaz's administration, the 7 mm Mauser was approved and acquired in both 1895 and 1897. It rapidly became popular within the military, eventually serving as the standard issue for the Porfirian army.

Faced with shortages of weaponry and embargoes on war materials imposed by the United States, the government sought alternative sources for rifles, including Japanese Arisaka models. Additionally, surplus American rifles were procured when the ruling regime aligned with U.S. interests.

The book also chronicles the early development of the military industry, emphasizing the lesser-known Gasca mission to Europe, which played a crucial role in establishing an industrial base for domestic arms and ammunition production.