German K43 Karabiner 43 G43 Nazi qve 45 8mm Mauser Semi Auto Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $3550
LSB#: 210528PV02
Make: Berlin-Lübecker Maschinenfabrik (BLM). In 1945 “qve” was the Nazi code for Berlin-Lübecker Maschinenfabrik.
Model: Karabiner 43 (K43). Previously designated as the Gewehr 43 (G43).
Serial Number: 9820c
Year of Manufacture: 1945
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Semi Auto, Detachable Magazine
Markings: The import mark on the barrel reads “CAI ST A VT / G43 8MM GER”. The left side of the receiver is marked “eagle / 214”, with the serial number, with a post WWII East German Border Guard “sunburst” proof, “K.43” and “qve 45”. The top cover is marked with the serial number in electric pencil (no letter suffix). The left side of the bolt carrier, the buttplate and bottom of the butt are each marked with the serial number (no letter suffix). The top of the bolt head is marked “eagle / 214”. The bolt and firing pin assembly each have the serial number (no letter suffix) in electric pencil and the locking lugs are each marked with the last two digits in electric pencil. The bottom of the magazine is marked “k”, the left is marked “gcb”, “eagle / WaA892”, “K43” and another “eagle / WaA892”.
Barrel Length: Approximately 21 ¾ Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a tall bladed post set atop a ramped base and under a removable protective hood. The rear sight is a “U” notched sliding escalator marked from “1-12”. The right side of the receiver has integral rail for an optic.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece with a ventilated brown synthetic handguard, laminated wood stock with a pistol grip, metal nosecap with sling bar, hole for the included cleaning rod, through bolt, sling well with pass through and a metal buttplate with hinged door for storage. The buttplate shows wear at the heel and toe, some light erosion and discoloration. The nosecap shows scrapes. The wood shows scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The handguard has light wear with some residue along the edges on the sides. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refurbished
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is infrequent light erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The most notable finish wear is on the bolt carrier. The receiver and carrier show the rough finish of late-war production .The metal shows scrapes & small scratches. The screw heads show use. Most of the markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good-Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with one ten round magazine.
Our Assessment: This German K43 (Karabiner 43) was made by Berlin-Lübecker Maschinenfabrik (BLM). It is marked with the scarce “qve” code. In late 1944 and in 1945 “qve” was the new Nazi code for BLM. After WWII the rifle was Arsenal Rebuilt and issued to East German Border Guards. It is distinctively marked with an East German “sunburst” proof. This is a great rifle for a collector.