GERMAN MAUSER G33/40 SPORTERIZED 7X57MM (.275 RIGBY) 23” BOLT ACTION RIFLE
SOLD FOR: $3,152.76
LSB#: LSB250516JB033
Make: Mauser
Model: G33/40 Sporterized
Serial Number: 3780
Year of Manufacture: 1940s (Receiver), Not C&R due to not being in original configuration
Caliber: 7x57mm Mauser (.275 Rigby)
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle Fed by Internal Magazine
Barrel Length: 23”
Sights / Optics:
A beaded blade front sight is mounted to a ramped base at the muzzle. A mid-barrel “speed sight” is installed for rapid target acquisition, while the rear bridge of the receiver is drilled and tapped with two scope bases installed, ready to accept an optic of your choice.
Stock Configuration & Condition:
This rifle is stocked in a light, sporterized walnut stock with a capped pistol grip and a modestly raised cheek piece. The forend and grip show graceful lines with a dainty profile, appropriate for the rifle’s handy mountain carbine heritage. A soft rubber buttpad is installed at the rear and remains supple. There are scattered minor handling marks but no cracks or major defects. The stock rates in about Very Good condition overall.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished During Sporterization
Bore Condition:
The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition:
This rifle retains about 90% of its current metal finish. There is light edge thinning, and a few small areas of operational wear. The bolt handle has been sporter-modified, likely for scope clearance. Screws are serviceable, and markings are mostly legible. The rifle rates in about Very Good condition overall, considering the sporterization.
Mechanics:
The action functions correctly. The bolt locks up securely and cycles smoothly. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Our Assessment:
This rifle began life as a German G33/40, a rare and rugged carbine variant of the Karabiner 98k built by Waffenwerke Brünn in Czechoslovakia for the German mountain troops during WWII. Known for its compactness, distinctive lightening cuts on the receiver, and reinforced bolt handle recess, the G33/40 is a desirable collectible in original condition. However, this example has been thoroughly sporterized, stripping it of military collectibility but transforming it into a nimble and elegant sporting rifle.
The rifle is chambered in 7x57mm Mauser, also known in British sporting circles as the .275 Rigby—a caliber legendary for its flat shooting, mild recoil, and big game pedigree. The presence of both “7×57” and “.275 Rigby” on the barrel hints at the rifle’s intended appeal to classic safari aficionados. It’s an ideal setup for the traditionalist hunter who wants old-world Mauser reliability with a sleek custom touch.
Whether you’re hunting whitetail in thick timber, planning a light rifle build for backcountry elk, or simply appreciate a graceful bolt-action with historic roots and modern application, this sporterized G33/40 is an attractive and functional piece that stands out in both form and lineage. So bid high and bid firm. I encourage you to look at the condition of the item in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
