Swiss Schmidt-Rubin K31 (Karbiner)……….. (F 1260)
Created on March 5th 2026
The K31 (Short) Repeating Rifle
This is the final version of what is usually known as the K31 Schmidt-Rubin but, there was another design influence that rarely gets the credit in nomculture. A Major Furrer actually redesigned the M1911 to produce this rifle. Within his design, the bolt does not rotate, but a bolt collar does instead. So in a way, this should really be known as the “Schmidt-Furrer K31”, but names stick, and that has not happened. Built to a standard military specification in 7.5 x 55mm, with a six shot detachable box magazine. The serial number is “811129” and is full matching apart from the magazine, indicating production in 1944. This rifle does not have a tag under the steel butt-plate, long lost. This K31 has been stocked in a mellowed, European Walnut with a semi-pistol grip and hand guard over the barrel, that terminates with a metal ring at the rear sights. An unusual feature of the K 31 Swiss stocks, are the staggered finger groves in the fore-end, but they work extremely well. An even more interesting feature of this particular stock, is that the Butt is constructed of two pieces of timber. The author has only seen this before with the Japanese rifles and it came about due to the extreme shortage of timber in the country at the time. If you take into consideration the date of production for this rifle, and think about the condition of Europe’s rail network, as the Allies were bombing it into total chaos; it may be that the Swiss, at the time, had to tighten their belts, and find a way around a shortage of supply.
The perfected design finally got into production in 1933. The main alteration was the overall length of the bolt, which allowed for a shorter receiver and a repositioning of the magazine adjacent to the trigger guard. However, the barrel was actually just a fraction longer than its predecessor, the K1911; even though the overall length of the rifle was shorter. The redesign moved the bolts locking lugs forward but still allowed the collar or shroud to rotate during cycling. This sped up cycling time as the stroke was also shorter, resulting in a heavier rate of fire. None of this detracted from the rifles inherent accuracy, which these rifles are known for – it improved it. The shorter bolt with its front locking lugs had removed any “rock” acting upon the round in the chamber and that only made things better.
The bolt has the aluminium bolt handle which was also part of the redesign, as the Bakelite red type were prone to damage. Swiss shield cartouche in centre of butt on RHS. Main Swiss shield on crest of receiver very clear. Adjustable front sight protected by steel ears. Bayonet fitting under front band, also fitted with steel stacking hook. Round cocking piece to rear of bolt. The barrel shoulder shows the last three digits matching the receiver, the Swiss acceptance marks and Proof Stamp. Quite clearly also the Waffenfabrik, acceptance mark for Bern. Bolt release on lower RHS of action.
Sights are the correct fitment to the rifle and function perfectly. This rifle is in good unaltered condition for a weapon that was made in the war years and to survive for 82 years in this condition, is testament to the care and respect afforded it by its various keepers and the original quality, care and attention put into its build and finish. The bore is good with uninterrupted rifling, there is the mildest hint of soft corrosion, in the lands, just out of the breech, however this is not considered enough to disrupt the rifles normal shooting ability. CIP proofed 2017. Also fitted with brown leather sling without makers mark, so possibly a reproduction, although it does show some age. A perfectly shootable surplus rifle which will probably still out shoot many of its contempoaries and a fine addition to any collection.
FAC required – Stock No’ F1260
£ 650.
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