Hungarian Gewehr Mannlicher 98/40 Bolt Action Rifle In 8mm, 1943 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,131.51
LSB#: WY240924LSB002
Make: Metallwaren, Waffen- und Maschinenfabrik AG, Budapest Hungary
Model: M98/40
Serial Number: 9152
Year of Manufacture: 1943
Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “jhv / 43” with a Reichsadler. The barrel shank and side of the receiver is marked with two Reichsadler with, “9152 / G98/40” The bolt is marked, “9152” The safety flag is marked, “52” The bottom metal and floor plate are marked, “9152” the barrel band and forend cap is marked, “9152” The stock is marked, “9152” There are various proofs throughout.
Barrel Length: 23.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular blade post set atop a ramped base. The rear sight is a V-notch sliding escalator assembly marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood stock with a forend cap/bayonet lug w/ cleaning rod, barrel band w/ sling loop, stock collar, sling passthrough and sling well, and a steel buttplate. The buttplate has pitting throughout. There are scratches, pressure dents, and chips throughout. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original to factory refurbishment
Bore Condition: The bore is black and the rifling is completely worn. There is very heavy erosion in the bore and there are chunks missing. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 1/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 30% of its metal finish. Much of the finish has worn off. There are moderate pitting marks throughout. There are scratches, scuffs, and light speckles of rust throughout. The action has moderate wear. The screw heads show moderate use. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Hungarian Gewehr Mannlicher 98/40 is a bolt-action rifle that represents a unique blend of design influences from both German and Hungarian firearms traditions during World War II. This rifle was developed and produced in Hungary under German supervision, reflecting the complex political and military alliances of the time. It was intended to equip Hungarian forces allied with -Germany, as well as to meet the demands of the German Wehrmacht, which was facing increasing pressure on multiple fronts. The 98/40 was based on the Hungarian 35M rifle, which itself was an earlier design rooted in the Mannlicher tradition. The Mannlicher-style bolt action, known for its smooth operation and reliability, was adapted in this rifle, but it was modified to accept the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge, the standard round used by the German military. This was a significant change from the original 8x56mmR cartridge used by the 35M, aligning the 98/40 with the ammunition logistics of the German forces. One of the key features of the Gewehr Mannlicher 98/40 is its hybrid design, which combines elements of both the Mauser and Mannlicher systems. The rifle uses a turn-bolt action similar to the Mauser, but it retains the Mannlicher-style split receiver bridge. This blend of features was intended to create a reliable and effective rifle that could be quickly integrated into both Hungarian and German military service. Historically, the Gewehr Mannlicher 98/40 saw service primarily with Hungarian forces, but it was also used by German troops, especially in the later stages of the war when there was a shortage of standard-issue German rifles. The rifle’s performance was generally well-regarded, though it was somewhat overshadowed by the more prolific Karabiner 98k in German service. Nonetheless, the 98/40 remains an interesting example of the collaboration between Axis nations and the adaptation of existing designs to meet the needs of a rapidly changing war.
Overall, the Hungarian Gewehr Mannlicher 98/40 is a distinctive World War II-era rifle that showcases the intersection of German and Hungarian firearms design. Built on the foundation of the Mannlicher action but modified to use the 7.92x57mm Mauser cartridge, this rifle served both Hungarian and German forces during a critical period of the war. Its hybrid design, historical significance, and role in the broader context of Axis military production make it a noteworthy firearm for collectors and historians alike. -C.M.
