Mauser Karabiner 98k Code 42 (1940) ‒ WWII German 8mm Bolt-Action Rifle
Produced at Mauser-Werke A.G., Oberndorf in late 1940, this Karabiner 98k bears the factory “42” code and triple WaA 655 inspection stamps. A transitional early-war example, it combines milled small parts with a laminated hardwood stock and cupped steel butt-plate. Matching serial numbers are present on the receiver and barrel, while other components are non-matching due to later restorative work. For collectors seeking an authentic, service-built K98k from the heart of WWII production, this rifle delivers verified markings and a solid shooting bore.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling Condition: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
What’s Included
- Surplus leather ammunition pouch
- Leather rifle sling
This rifle’s receiver ring is crisply marked “42” above the 1940 date, confirming manufacture during a pivotal year of German re-armament. The serial number 4951 W places it in the late-1940 W-block, and the correct WaA 655 Waffenamt stamps appear on the receiver and barrel.
The laminated hardwood stock shows the period-correct takedown disc, sling cut-out, and cupped butt-plate. Surface scratches and handling marks are evident, consistent with field use and later arsenal storage, yet wood integrity remains sound.
Restorative work is apparent, most notably in the non-matching bolt and small components. While parts were replaced, the receiver and barrel have stayed together, preserving the rifle’s core identity and proof marks.
Mechanically, the bolt cycles smoothly, the five-round internal magazine feeds reliably, and the three-position safety functions as intended. The clean, shiny bore with strong rifling supports both collectible status and potential range use with proper 7.92×57 JS ammunition.