Mauser Karabiner 98k S/243 Code (1938) Russian Capture in 8mm Mauser, Laminated Stock, 23.6 in Barrel
This WWII-era Mauser Karabiner 98k was made in Germany in 1938 and is receiver-marked "S/243" over "1938" with "MOD 98" on the left rail. It carries the classic "Dirty Bird" eagle stamp and eagle-over-number Waffenamt proofs, including a WaA655 inspector mark. A large "X" on the receiver confirms documented Soviet Russian-capture arsenal refurbishment, and the rifle retains its laminated stock with a cupped steel buttplate dated "44," reflecting its service and postwar history.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The metal surfaces show moderate finish wear consistent with age and military service, with light edge wear and scattered handling marks. No significant active corrosion is observed. All visible markings and Waffenamt stamps remain clear and legible. The stock displays typical handling impressions, small dents, and finish wear expected of a service rifle of this era, with no major cracks or structural damage noted. The bore shows defined rifling consistent with good condition for its age.
What’s Included
- Mauser Karabiner 98k rifle (8mm Mauser)
Receiver markings include "S/243" over "1938" and "MOD 98," aligning it with 1938 German production. The barrel shank carries a small "7,9" stamp, and multiple eagle-over-number proofs are present. The "Dirty Bird" eagle and WaA655 inspector mark are visible, providing clear period verification of manufacture and inspection.
The large "X" on the receiver indicates Russian capture. Typical of Soviet refurbishment, the bolt body is electro-penciled to the rifle, several parts bear mismatched numbers, and a later stamped/spot-welded front barrel band is fitted. These features are consistent indicators of postwar arsenal processing.
The laminated stock features a left-side sling slot, takedown/disassembly disc, a single recoil cross-bolt, and a cupped steel buttplate dated "44." This stock configuration reflects late-war components mated during refurbishment while maintaining robust field utility.
Chambered in 8mm Mauser with a 23.6 in barrel and 5+1 capacity, this K98k uses a bolt-action system with a three-position flag safety. Iron sights include a front blade on a ramp and a tangent rear sight for practical elevation adjustment. Length of pull measures 13.0 in.
Overall, this is a German-made, WWII-era K98k with documented Russian-capture provenance, correct period markings including the "Dirty Bird," and a laminated stock assembly representative of its service life and postwar history.