The Karabiner 98k is a bolt action rifle chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser (8mm Mauser), adopted by the German military in 1935 as the standard infantry rifle. It is built on the controlled feed Mauser 98 action featuring dual front locking lugs, a non-rotating claw extractor that maintains control of the cartridge from the magazine through ejection, and a third safety lug at the rear of the bolt body. The action cocks on opening and uses a 90 degree bolt throw. A three position flag safety is located at the rear of the bolt shroud, allowing the shooter to select between fire, safe with bolt operation, and full safe which locks the bolt closed. Rifles bearing the ax manufacturer code were produced at the Erma Werke facility in Erfurt.

This example bears serial number 8784 and is marked ax 1940, placing it within WWII wartime production. The rifle is non-matching, with various serial numbers across its components and hardware. Waffenamts and Imperial Eagle acceptance marks are present throughout, visible on the barrel, barrel shank, bolt, bolt carrier, bolt release, rear sight, trigger guard screw, and magazine floorplate. The barrel has been cut to 22 inches and recrowned, and a Lyman front sight has been installed. The stock has been sporterized, featuring a shortened forend, added checkering, plugged sling slots, and a rubber recoil pad. Despite being sporterized, its finish appears to be original. Length of pull measures 13.5 inches. No original box or accessories included.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Erma Werke, Erfurt (ax code)
• Model: Karabiner 98k (sporterized)
• Date of Manufacture: 1940
• Serial Number: 8784
• Caliber: 7.92x57mm Mauser (8mm Mauser)
• Action: Bolt action, controlled feed, dual locking lug, 90 degree throw
• Barrel: 22 inches, recrowned
• Receiver: Machined steel
• Stock: Sporterized, pistol grip with checkering, rubber buttpad, 13.5 inch length of pull
• Sights: Lyman front sight, original rear sight
• Safety: Three position flag safety
• Magazine: Internal box magazine, 5 round capacity