Mauser Kar.98a

Description

Matching & original! Offered for sale is this very nice example of a WW1 Imperial German carbine issued to various Units requiring a shorter weapon. The Kar.98 a was similar to the Kar.98AZ & fits a niche for the serious collector looking to complete their military Mauser collection. The original Kar.98 was adopted in June of 1902 & production commenced in 1903. With the adoption of the new 8mm “S” cartridge in 1903 all of these carbines were modified for the new round. The heavy recoil & foot long muzzle flash from these modified carbines with the new cartridge lead to the suspension of production in 1905. To fix this problem the GPK (Gewehr Prufungs Kommission) developed the Kar98a with a longer barrel & a different stock. The Carbine they accepted into service in January 1908 is the Kar.98a that we are familiar with today. The Kar.98a was issued to Cavalry, Assault Troops & other special purpose troops needing a handier weapon. On this example all visible numbers match including the front sight, both barrel bands, floor plate (even the capture screws), bolt (although the S/N on the bolt handle appears to have been removed at some stage of its 105 year life), magazine follower & butt plate . Correctly, it has the bolt completely 'in the white' as it left the Erfurt factory in 1916 meaning it has not been refinished or worse, had any bluing removed by over excited cleaning. This is truly in very good condition for its age. There is some noticeable pitting at the front of the carbine & we have taken photos showing this. The wood appears correct for this carbine even though the lower wood which forms the stock becomes darker from around the rear sight back which we believe is from handling over the years. This example has the harder to find stock which is without the finger grooves & this is all completely original, as it left the trenches. This can be established by the fact that any which remained in service for police or border guard use had another year stamped on the receiver (often 1919 or 1920) & this one does not, meaning it was not 're-purposed' but spirited away. As the father of the Kar98k in original condition such as this, this would make an excellent addition to your collection or be the start of it. You will know if this is for you so view the photos carefully & make your decision based on what you see as they form the main description & override all written information. Ask for more if desired. Whilst we check these out for serviceability, the warranty has expired & this is sold on an 'as is' basis. As with all used guns, we recommend you have this checked by a suitably qualified person prior to shooting. Call for shipping cost to your dealer.  

Specifications