scottjua I'd love to own some form of vintage DL-44 - but no idea how I would ever get one into Australia (I could buy an MGC mauser here, but I'd want someone like you to do the heavy lifting, which would mean travel both ways!). Have you had any experience/luck with this?
I think THERE you need permits for replicas... at least in some states? I don't begin to understand the ins and outs of Australia's laws. BUT I know people have them and I've shipped there... but I think in all aspects the buyers got their permits lined up.
IF you want the closest to a real Mauser version... then the Field Marshall steel Mauser replica would be the best bet. The MGC can probably be sent back and forth... but double check your laws on getting it back. Coming here shouldn't be a problem aside from cost to ship
It's got the serial numebr so all good there. I really debated getting one but went for it in the end. It looks great and there's tons of pieces. I'm in the middle of other DL-44 builds so this may sit for a bit, but I may just tackle the sanding and bluing to get it fully protected while it sits.