7mm Mauser origin

Question
I have a 7mm Mauser that has been sporterized with a Mannlicher stock, Yeager trigger, and custom made front sight.  The barrel and action have matching serial numbers of 28125.  The rifle is sporterized with a scope and mount.  The mount "bridges" across the top of the bolt.  Marked on the action is this: Fab.Nat.D'Armes De Guerre,  followed by Herstal - Belgique.  The bolt is of the three locking lug design, two at the front of the bolt, and one at the rear of the bolt, so I am sure this is a Model 98.  I understand that the model 98 was the only Mauser with the three locking lugs like this.  What can you tell me about the origin of this rifle, it's date of manufacture, etc.  The work on this rifle is superb...the stock is near perfect and the barrel appears to be in great condition.  Thanks for you help and info...Tony Hansen

Answer
Hi.
FN made Mauser 98 rifles under licence after 1922.
They made both military and commercial rifles.
I have no access to specific records of production dates. You could try Robert Ball's "Mauser Military Rifles of the World". Its the most comprehensive book on the the topic. Since its not orginal it may you have to attempt to match it to photos.  There are dozens of variation
as more 100 million Mausers were made.


http://www.recguns.com/Sources/IIID2a123.html
This site has many photos you can compare
http://www.collectiblefirearms.com/RiflesMauser.html
http://www.surplusrifle.com/mauser98k/index.asp

You could try writing the company.
Here is thier website.
http://www.gebecoma.org/index.php?section=members&sub=fn

Sorry I can't be of more help.
Surplus Mauser just were never an interest of mine.
The ammo was too expensive compare US or British service rifles and ammo. Well the rifles were not expensive and at times still are inexpensive at times.

A well made Mauser is a fine rifle.
Quality controll was not consistant.