1943 J.P. Sauer & Sohn K98k 8mm Mauser Bolt-Action Rifle – ce 43 Wartime Production
This 1943 Karabiner 98k was built by J.P. Sauer & Sohn under the wartime “ce 43” receiver code, placing it firmly in the middle of World War II production. A mix of stamped and milled parts, a laminated stock with cupped buttplate, and an in-the-white bolt body highlight the transitional manufacturing practices of mid-1943. Clear Waffenamt WaA 37 proofs and the early-block “aa” serial suffix add period authenticity that collectors value.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling Condition: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Light handling wear is visible, including scattered surface scratches and a hairline crack in the laminated stock. Bluing remains consistent with expected service use.
What’s Included
- J.P. Sauer & Sohn Karabiner 98k bolt-action rifle (8mm Mauser, 1943 production)
Produced during Germany’s fourth Sauer rifle block, this K98k carries the “aa” serial suffix—marking it as one of the first 10,000 rifles in that series. The combination of blued steel receiver and barrel with an unfinished bolt body reflects period expediencies while still delivering reliable function.
The 23.6 inch barrel feeds from a five-round internal magazine and is paired with standard K98k iron sights: a hoodless inverted-V front blade and a tangent rear sight graduated from 100 to 2,000 meters. These combat-proven sights remain crisp and fully functional.
The laminated beech/birch stock features a takedown disk and cupped buttplate, both typical for 1943 production. Stampings remain legible, including Waffenamt eagles and the “ce 43” code on the receiver ring, underscoring its historical provenance.
For collectors of WWII arms or anyone seeking a solid representative of mid-war German manufacturing, this Sauer-built K98k offers authentic features, intact markings, and a serviceable bore ready for careful range use or display.