Israeli K98 Mauser IDF Conversion 7.62 NATO Bolt Rifle Bayonet, Accessories
SOLD FOR: $1,257.00
LSB#: LSB250523DF013
Make: Mauser (Israeli IDF Conversion)
Model: K98k (IDF Modified)
Serial Number: 1161
Year of Manufacture: Originally WWII era, converted post-war (1950s–1960s)
Caliber: 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Win Equivalent)\
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel shank is marked “7.62”. The left side of the receiver is marked “1161”, matching the top of the bolt handle, which is also marked “1161”. The top of the extractor is marked “58”. The right side of the barrel bears two German Waffenamt WaA77 proof marks, a clear indication this was originally a German K98k before IDF conversion. There are additional Israeli markings and proof stamps throughout the receiver and barrel, consistent with Israeli refurbishment and reissue protocols.
Barrel Length: Approximately 24″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded v-blade post set atop a serrated ramped base. The rear sight is a v-notch leaf on a sliding escalator-style elevation ramp, adjustable out to 20. This setup is typical of WWII-era German K98ks retained during Israeli conversions.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two-piece wood stock has a semi-pistol grip, scallop for the bolt knob, nose cap with bayonet lug, barrel band with sling ring, through bolt, sling passthrough, and a metal buttplate. There are compression marks, scuffs, and scratches throughout the wood. There are chips. There are cracks forming at the heel, wrist, and forend. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fair to Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Parkerized / Phosphate Toned Arsenal Refinish
Finish Originality: Arsenal Refinished during Israeli conversion
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright with strong rifling. There is some light fouling and minor frost throughout, but no deep pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its Israeli arsenal refinish. Wear is evident on high edges, the bolt knob, and receiver bridge. Scattered handling marks, small nicks, and surface thinning from use are present throughout. The serialized bolt, receiver, and other visible parts suggest partial matching. The action is tight and mechanically sound, showing signs of military service but not abuse. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The bolt cycles properly, the trigger is crisp, and the safety engages as intended. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Accessories Included: This rifle comes with a period-correct Israeli bayonet with steel scabbard and wood grips, bearing Hebrew markings. Also included are IDF-style khaki webbing pouches, two original boxes of Israeli arsenal 7.62 NATO wood tipped ammunition, and a cloth bandolier with Hebrew markings.
Our Assessment: This is a unique, collectible piece of both WWII and post-war history. Originally a German K98k—evidenced by the WaA77 Waffenamt markings—this rifle was later reworked by the Israeli Defense Forces to chamber 7.62 NATO, bringing it into alignment with modern ammunition logistics. These rifles were used extensively through the 1950s–1970s by Israeli forces and are often seen in photographs of the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War.
The retention of original N@zi-era markings alongside Israeli conversion features adds tremendous historical appeal. The matching serials and included bayonet and accoutrements elevate this example above the standard mixmaster K98 conversions commonly seen on the market.
Collectors of Mausers, IDF weaponry, or Cold War-era small arms will immediately recognize the value in this rifle’s transitional lineage. With its clean bore, matching numbers, Israeli surplus ammo, and field gear, this is a battlefield veteran ready for display or the range—and a potent reminder of how history often finds new life through adaptation. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
