German Occupation Norwegian M1943 Krag–Jørgensen Rifle 6.5×55, 1943 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,025.00
LSB#: LSB250727DF002
Make: Kongsberg Arms Factory, Norway
Model: 1891 Krag–Jørgensen
Serial Number: 325
Year of Manufacture: 1943
Caliber: 6.5×55 Swedish
Action Type: Bolt action, 5 round side loading magazine.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “NA 1943-325” with two waa84 Waffenamt and a Reichsadler. There are several Waffenamt throughout. The bolt is serial matched, all other parts are not. The bayonet is marked with several Norwegian proofs and is not serial number matched to the rifle.
Barrel Length: 24.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an adjustable blade set into a raised base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a tangent U-notch sight set into a barrel mounted base.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a cleaning rod, barrel band w/ sling stud, barrel band, finger grooves, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, QD sling bar, and a steel buttplate. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout along with a few small chips. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates at about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to Arsenal Refurbishment
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. The barrel shows spots of patina and light scratches. The receiver and bolt have light thinning. The action has light to moderate wear. The screw heads show light to moderate use. The markings are mostly clear. Overall this rifle rates in about Very Good condition. The bayonet is in good condition, the scabbard has a sizable dent and moderate surface rust.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Original sling, Bayonet.
Our Assessment: This is a rare and highly collectible example of a German-occupation Norwegian Krag–Jørgensen rifle, specifically the M1943 variant, produced at the Kongsberg Arms Factory in Norway during the German occupation in WWII. Chambered in 6.5x55mm Swedish, the Norwegian Krag–Jørgensen differs significantly from the U.S. Krag in both chambering and design. What makes this rifle particularly significant is the German “NA 1943” marking, the Reichsadler, and the presence of multiple Waffenamt (WaA84) German inspection stamps, all of which confirm this rifle was made under N@zi control—one of only a very limited number of Krag rifles completed during the occupation. This rifle retains about 80% of its arsenal-refinished blued finish, with patina, thinning, and scattered wear visible across all components. While the bolt is matching to the receiver, the rest of the parts are not serial-matched, which is not unusual for a wartime or postwar-assembled example. The bore is in strong condition, gray with sharp rifling and only light erosion, rating a solid 8/10, and making it quite suitable for range use with proper 6.5x55mm ammunition. The stock, in good overall condition, is structurally sound with no cracks but does exhibit handling wear, pressure dents, and minor chips from use and service. The correct rear tangent sight, cleaning rod, and QD sling bar are all present, and the rifle retains its full military configuration. It also includes a bayonet marked with Norwegian proofs, though not serialized to the rifle, making for an even more desirable historical package.
These occupation-marked Krags are exceedingly scarce and sought after by collectors of WWII arms, Axis occupation weapons, and Norwegian military firearms. The combination of Waffenamt acceptance, Kongsberg production, and the unique blend of Norwegian design under German oversight makes this rifle a standout historical artifact. Whether as a centerpiece in a collection or a functional range piece with deep historical roots, this M1943 Krag is a rare opportunity for the serious collector. We are no longer offering layaway. -R.E.
