German byf Mauser-Werke K98 Bolt Action Rifle In 8mm W/ Sling, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
WOA#: WY240517EG009
Make: Mauser-Werke KG, Oberndorf Germany
Model: K98
Serial Number: 36423E
Year of Manufacture: 1944
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “byf /44” with a “135” Heerswaffenamt inspection mark. The left side of the receiver is marked, “36423e / Mod.98” The firing pin housing is marked, “7252” The firing pin is marked, “5727” The back of the buttplate is marked, “bpr” The bottom metal is marked, “255” The forend cap is marked, “1214” The barrel shank is marked, “0269”
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a chevron post set atop a ramped base with checkering and a hood. The rear sight is a V-notch blade attached to a sliding escalator assembly.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The laminate wood stock has a semi-pistol grip, nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the missing cleaning rod, barrel band with sling bar, through bolt, sling well, sling pass through, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate has impact marks, rust spots and wear. There are light compression marks and scratches throughout the wood. There is a split in the laminate on the side of the receiver. There are no chips. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to refurbishment
Bore Condition: The bore is light gray and the rifling is sharp. There is light to moderate erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 8/10.
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 98% of its metal finish. There is light thinning and small scratches throughout. The leading edges are thinning and the action has wear from use. There are light rust speckles throughout. The screw heads show light use. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Excellent condition as refurbished.
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: K98 leather sling.
Our Assessment: The Mauser-Werke K98, also known as the Karabiner 98k or K98k, is a bolt-action rifle chambered in the 8mm Mauser (7.92×57mm IS) cartridge. It was the standard service rifle for the German Wehrmacht during World War II and remains one of the most iconic bolt-action rifles in history. Produced by Mauser-Werke and other German arms manufacturers, the K98k was an evolution of the earlier Gewehr 98, designed to be more compact and suitable for modern warfare. The K98k features a robust bolt-action mechanism that utilizes a controlled-feed system. This design ensures reliable feeding, chambering, and extraction of cartridges, even in adverse conditions. The bolt features dual front locking lugs and a third safety lug, providing a strong and secure lock-up. The rifle’s safety mechanism is a three-position flag safety located on the rear of the bolt, allowing the shooter to easily manipulate it with the thumb. The action is smooth and precise, making the K98k renowned for its reliability and ease of use. During World War II, the K98k was the primary infantry rifle for German soldiers, used in various theaters of war. Its ruggedness and reliability in harsh conditions made it a preferred weapon for soldiers. The rifle’s accuracy and range also made it a formidable weapon in the hands of skilled marksmen. After the war, many K98k rifles were captured by Allied forces and saw use in various countries around the world. Some were refurbished and reissued, while others were sold to civilian markets.
Today, the Mauser-Werke K98 remains a highly sought-after firearm among collectors, historians, and shooting enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its excellent craftsmanship and performance, makes it a valuable addition to any firearm collection. The K98k stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Mauser company and the enduring legacy of German small arms design. Whether admired as a piece of history or used for shooting, the K98k continues to be respected for its iconic status and exceptional quality. -R.E.
