US bringback “dou / 43” K98 – bolt mismatch………..(f 740) SOLD

Excellent K98 “dou /43” US GI bring-back Mauser

To the “Victor go the Spoils …. – and all the good kit!  This K98 rifle is typical of a surrendered weapon in that the rifle components all match yet the bolt is of a different number.   Of standard production features for this stage in the conflict.  A mid-war carbine in a mid-war laminated stock, with the correct stock furniture.  Due to timber shortages the laminated stocks took over from the early walnut type which were in service at the beginning of the conflict.  The laminated stocks, it turned, out were far stronger and more tolerant of damage than their predecessors.  Also, being composed of timber and a high percentage of glue, they were more resistant to water damage.  The end result was heavier – this only adds to the K98s reputation for accuracy.

Chambered in the standard 8mm German cartridge, with a five shot, internal, staggered magazine.  The curved bolt handle and Mauser action produced a very rapid rate of fire, and was smooth and easy to use.  This K98 is 43.1/2″ in overall length.  The round blued barrel is  24″ long.  The trigger pull to center is 13″. The round-topped receiver is marked with the manufacturers code of “dou” for Waffen Werke Brunn AG, Bystrica and below that the production date of “43”   The serial number is “8564 V” which is slightly unusual in that most known examples have double letter suffixes for that year.   The barrel also shows the same manufactures code and correct waffenamts.  The receiver crest also has an “WaA80” Waffeamt on the crest with Eagle.   Beside the serial number, on the receiver, is a clear Eagle and Swastica which is repeated on the barrel.  The model designation “Mod. 98” is on the outside of the receiver wall.  The finish is thinning and most noticeable on the high edges.  The front of the rear action bridge is cut for the stripper clip guide and the action wall has the cut-out to allow loading by clip.

The bolt release on the rear LHS of the action has the last two digits of the serial number showing on the top face.  Standard K98 rear sight, numbered to the rifle and graduated from 100 to 2000 meters.  The trigger guard and magazine floor plate are of the pressed steel variety but have no manufactures code; they do however, have the correct serial number on each piece. It is odd though, that records indicate, both trigger guard and floor-plate should be cast, milled parts. One can only guess that this has something to do with the anomaly of the single digit suffix.  The main stock fixing screws have the correct cut-outs in the heads to allow the locking screws to function, which is right for the period but are un-numbered.

The balance of the stock furniture is of the correct pressed and welded type, which is matched.   Also, as is common with many other K’s the cupped steel butt-plate is clearly marked with the sub-contractors code of “dwc” and a nice clear waffenamt.  This code is for Bome & Co.  The stock is in very good condition and has had a refresher coat of oil to protect it.  There are few marks or dings on the surface and no hint of de-lamination.  The butt-stock is equipped with the pressed steel bolt disassembly disc (unmarked) and a slot for the leather sling.  It has absolutely no markings on any of the surfaces.  The cleaning rod is present, stored under the barrel.  The nose-cap has the correct bayonet fitting lug.  The simple plain nose-band has retained some degree of blued finish

The rifle is correctly fitted with a front sight hood and still retains one of the three rubber muzzle protection caps.  (Each soldier was issued with three of these per rifle.) As mentioned above the bolt bears a different serial number. (The rifle is freshly proofed with this bolt) “1112” is clearly marked on all the bolt components and the bolt has retained a good degree of original blued finish.  Positive operation and fully functionable three position Mauser flag safety to rear.

The bore on this weapon is definitely used but not to the point of any detriment.  It is in very good condition, is bright and free of pitting or misting.  The chamber is also clear.  Bolt face is clear; an impression of a primer ring is just visible but is so light that the bolt face finish has not been disturbed.  The general impression in the hand is that this rifle has seen service but has not suffered for it.  It will be a pleasure to shoot, and in the right hands quite effective.  A piece of history.

Stock No’  f 740

£ 910. (Sold)

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