“BSW / 1939” K98k Rifle captured by the Soviets……(f 958)
Created on September 3rd 2021
Early BSW K98 rare receiver, Russian captured Rifle
A German K98 which has literally done the rounds in a historical sense. This is an early K98k built by Berlin-Suhler-Waffen und Fahrzeugwerke. One of the lesser producers numerically speaking of the famous K98k and one of the better in quality terms. Obviously in 1939 things were going well for the Third Reich and no expense or materials were spared in producing their main battle rifle. A rifle which literally steamrollered most of Europe into the ground in Blitzkrieg. However, the evidence is plain to see that one of Germanys deadliest foes managed to get hold of this rifle and turn it against the original aggressors – that was Russia. Noses often turn up against such linage but if you concentrate on the facts which are enveloped around this rifle, it is actually a very interesting piece. Also, the letters on the crest of the receiver indicate, that this rifle was produced in early 1939, before the merger with the Gustloff Werke in mid 1939, where they then changed to the coding system and put “337” on the receiver instead.
Of standard military configuration, the only incorrectly mixed part for the period is the steel band around the bayonet fitting. The Soviets have used a later war steel pressed part, as opposed to the “h” band of the production period. To the author this indicates capture in the latter part of the war. The laminated stock is however period correct, including the flat butt-plate. The rifle itself measures 43.1/2″ in overall length. The round blued barrel is 23.3/4″ long and the trigger pull is 13″ to centre.
The laminated stock has few markings on it but, on very close inspection, in the right light, it is possible to just see faint traces of the original waffenamts in the side of the butt. The flat steel butt-plate has the number of another rifle upon it “3777” However, it is also a blessing that at this stage or at the location where the rifle was re-built by the Soviets, they have not stamped the number into the side of the stock as is often seen. The most telling indication of Soviet influence is the stamping-out of the Swastikas’ on the rifles metalwork. All the inspection marks of an Eagle with spread wings over the Swastika have been over-stamped, obliterating that hated symbol.
When studying the numbers it is apparent that not one number on the mismatched bolt is the same. Every component has been “taken down” in the factory and reassembled from a pile of parts. This clearly distinguishes this rifle from an allied battlefield pick up. Lastly the rifles’ serial number (present upon receiver and barrel “668”) has been electro-pencilled onto the bolt body. It is also quite nice to see that a mistake was made at that point as a further digit of “3” has been crossed out afterwards. Monotony probably dulled the mind on long shifts in the Soviet arms factory. The milled magazine floor plate has the same “668” pencilled in, as does the rear sight.
Outer action wall with model designation “Mod 98.” LHS of receiver with serial number “668” and defaced waffenamt. The serial number 668 is very low for this manufacturer – published examples start from 1257. Barrel with same. Cleaning rod in position , bayonet fitting. Bolt strip-down disk in butt. Side mountings facilities for leather sling. The bluing over the receiver and barrel are strong and look to be original. There is a large “C” on the RHS of the receiver with three obliterated waffenamts. Rear sights graduated from 100 to 2000 meters with a very good aftermarket ZF-41 side mount in position. This is an above average remake of the original item which has accurized the rifle and does not have the normal “wobble” associated with other aftermarket versions.
Overall this is a very good example of an early and rare German produced K98k which fell into the wrong hands and was used to repel the very armies that had brought such destruction to the east in a very bitterly fought conflict. The bore is in excellent condition for a rifle with so much history. Strong rifling – obviously used ! but no pitting or corrosion. Known to be a good shooter, just waiting to be looked after once again in the hands of a real enthusiast.
Stock No’ F 958
£ 995.
Comments Off on “BSW / 1939” K98k Rifle captured by the Soviets……(f 958)