Waffenfabrik Bern K31 (Karabiner Modell 1931) – 1954 Swiss Straight-Pull Icon in 7.5×55mm
Built in 1954, this late-production K31 embodies the celebrated precision of Swiss militia rifles while benefiting from hardened receivers and magazines introduced in the final years of manufacture. Chambered for the match-grade 7.5×55 mm GP11 cartridge and fitted with its original straight-pull bolt, the rifle offers collector-grade originality and a shooting experience that still feels modern. From its chrome-nickel steel, mirror-bright bore to its beech hardwood stock with alpine sling bar, every detail reflects the disciplined craftsmanship of Waffenfabrik Bern.
Condition
Very good overall, showing only light, superficial handling marks appropriate to careful militia service. Minor scratches and small blemishes are present but purely cosmetic. The 25.5″ barrel exhibits an excellent, mirror-shiny bore with well-defined four-groove rifling—exactly what you hope to find in a K31 renowned for accuracy. Mechanicals cycle smoothly, and the straight-pull bolt locks up with the firm, glass-rod feel these rifles are famous for.
What’s Included
• One original Swiss factory 6-round steel magazine, correctly fitted to the action.
• Everything else pictured ships exactly as shown—no aftermarket parts, no alterations.
Designed as the Karabiner Modell 1931, the K31 replaced earlier Schmidt–Rubin variants with a stronger, shorter action that locks directly behind the chamber. The result is faster follow-up shots and a reputation for bench-rest-level accuracy in service trim. This 1954 example falls within the 222 451–239 600 serial range—one of the last full years of production—making it desirable to both shooters and collectors who value the evolutionary refinements of the platform.
The blued finish on the chrome-nickel steel receiver and barrel remains deep and even. Beech furniture retains its original finish, featuring the characteristic finger groove, full-length hand-guard, and side-mounted sling bar engineered for alpine carry. Many K31s conceal the original soldier’s name tag beneath the butt-plate—a charming piece of Swiss militia history you may wish to explore.
Functionally, the rifle sports the distinctive axial-push cocking-ring safety: a simple, intuitive control that blocks striker movement when engaged. Iron sights consist of a square-hooded barleycorn front and a tangent rear leaf adjustable in 100-meter increments—ideal for ringing steel or stretching to the K31’s well-known long-range potential with standard GP11 ball.
If you’re looking to add a late-production, straight-pull classic with an outstanding bore and honest, lightly used finish, this 1954 K31 is ready to earn its place on your rack and at the range.