Pre Ban Heckler & Koch HK 91 .308 18” Semi-Auto Rifle HK91 G3 Battle Rifle
SOLD FOR: $4,825.00
LSB#: WY240910MM006
Make: Heckler & Koch, HK
Model: HK91
Serial Number: A 048299
Year of Manufacture: 1981(IB Date Code)
Caliber: .308 / 7.62X51
Action Type: Roller Delayed Blowback, Semi-Automatic Fed By Detachable Magazines
Markings: The right side of the magwell is marked, “Made in Germany / HK Inc. / Arl. Va. 22 201 / Cal. .308”. The left and right side of the safety selector is marked, “0” and “1”. The left side of the magwell is marked, “HK 91 A 048299” with a Nitro Eagle and Ulm Antler Proof and a Date code “IB”. The top of the charging handle is marked, “1IB”. The forend is marked, “31B” The left side of the buttstock in the sling well is marked, “41F”. The scope mount is marked, “A.R.M.S. W.B. MA. 02379 U.S.A. SWAN G-3
Barrel Length: 18”. 19.5” with muzzle break.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded post. The rear sight is an adjustable diopter drum marked 2 3 4. The top of the receiver has a Scope Claw Mount with a Weaver Kaspa Tactical 3-12×44 scope. The glass is clear and the scope is in Very Good condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a three piece polymer set with a triangular open top G3 forend, finger grooved pistol grip, and drop comb stock w/ cheek riser, sling bar, holes for takedown pins, and soft rubber Decelerator pad. There are light scratches and rub marks throughout. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in about Very Good to Excellent overall condition. There is a spare original stock/recoil assembly in Excellent condition.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Three original HK G3 20rd magazines in Excellent condition, one 10rd magazine in excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black enamel.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is light operation wear. There are light scratches throughout, and light wear at the magwell. The screw heads are sharp and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent 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. There is a brass deflector behind the ejection port. The trigger is crisp and light. The headspacing on this rifle is 0.015.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with four magazines, scope, spare stock, cleaning kit, magazine loader & unloader, cleaning kit, bipod, firing pin assembly, screwdriver, range targets, and dual magazine clamp.
Our Assessment: The Pre-Ban Heckler & Koch (HK) 91 is a civilian version of the German military G3 rifle, one of the most iconic battle rifles of the 20th century. Manufactured by Heckler & Koch, the HK 91 was introduced to the U.S. market in the 1970s and became highly sought after due to its robust design, reliable operation, and military heritage. Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO (.308 Winchester), the HK 91 was built to provide civilian shooters with a high-quality semi-automatic rifle that retained the performance and durability of its military counterpart. The HK 91 operates on a roller-delayed blowback system, a hallmark of Heckler & Koch’s design. This system uses rollers to delay the rearward movement of the bolt, allowing for smooth cycling and reducing felt recoil despite the power of the 7.62 NATO round. The roller-delayed blowback system is known for its simplicity and reliability, which made the G3 and its civilian counterpart, the HK 91, trusted rifles in both military and civilian markets. The rifle’s action does not rely on gas to cycle the action, which contributes to its reputation for reliability in harsh conditions. As a “pre-ban” firearm, the HK 91 is highly desirable among collectors. Before the 1994 Federal Assault Weapons Ban, the HK 91 could be imported and sold in its original military-style configuration, which included features like a pistol grip, detachable magazines, and a flash suppressor. The ban restricted the import and sale of firearms with these features, making pre-ban models like the HK 91 rare and valuable. Collectors often seek out these pre-ban rifles not only for their unrestricted features but also for their historical significance.
Overall, the Pre-Ban Heckler & Koch HK 91 is a highly regarded firearm among collectors and shooting enthusiasts. Its connection to the military G3, its advanced roller-delayed blowback system, and its pre-ban status make it a prized possession for those interested in military-style rifles. Its reliability, accuracy, and ruggedness have cemented its place as one of the most iconic semi-automatic rifles available to civilian shooters. -R.E.
