Waffenfabrik Mauser Gewehr 98 29” 8mm Mauser Bolt Action Rifle, 1914 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: LSB260224HE068
Make: Waffenfabrik Mauser A-G, Oberndorf on the Neckar
Model: Gewehr 98
Serial Number: 7597g
Year of Manufacture: 1914 / C&R
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER A-G. OBERNDORF A/N. 1914”. The left side of the receiver is marked with an Imperial Reichsadler and “7597 g / Gew. 98.” The serialized parts are not all matching. There are various small proofs throughout. The bayonet is marked, “Erfurt”. There are several Imperial German proofs throughout.
Barrel Length: 29”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a barleycorn post dovetailed to a knurled ramped base. The rear sight is a sliding Lange Vizier roller coaster assembly marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a forend cap/bayonet lug & parade hook, cleaning rod, barrel band w/ sling loop, finger grooves, through bolt, semi-pistol grip, sling stud, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There are several small chips throughout, there are no cracks. The LOP is 13”. The stock rates in about Good + overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion in the bore with some light pitting marks. The last three inches of the bore has been counter-bored. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 4/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. There is heavy thinning and moderate patina throughout. There are light pitting spots throughout the bolt. There are nicks, scratches, and scuffs throughout. The screw heads are tooled. The markings are blurry and worn in spots. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair condition. The bayonet is in Good to Very Good condition. The bayonet is mostly bright with light spots of patina. The scabbard and frog leather are in Fair condition.
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: 1898/05 Type 1 Sawback Bayonet.
Our Assessment: The Gewehr 98, manufactured by Waffenfabrik Mauser in 1914, represents the definitive early expression of the Mauser 98 system, a design that would go on to influence bolt-action rifles worldwide. As the standard German service rifle at the outset of the First World War, the Gewehr 98 was engineered for strength, reliability, and long-range performance. Its long barrel and Lange Visier sight system were intended to maximize effectiveness at extended distances, reflecting the military doctrine of the period. Chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser, a cartridge known for its power and range, the rifle became a cornerstone of German infantry armament during one of the most pivotal conflicts in modern history. This example reflects its age and service, retaining approximately 20% of its metal finish with evident thinning, patina, and wear throughout. The bore shows significant use, presenting with worn rifling, erosion, and a counterbored muzzle, consistent with its 4 out of 10 rating. The stock remains structurally sound with typical handling wear, including dents and small chips, while maintaining its original military configuration complete with hardware and takedown disc. The rifle is not fully matching, which is common for rifles that have seen refurbishment or long-term service, and the markings remain present though worn in areas.
Altogether, this Gewehr 98 stands as a representative example of a World War I German service rifle that has seen both use and maintenance over time. Its condition reflects a working military arm that has endured more than a century, while still preserving the defining characteristics of Mauser’s flagship design. The inclusion of a period bayonet further complements the rifle’s historical presence, offering a tangible connection to its original role in early 20th century military service. -R.E.