K.Kale Model 1938 Mauser 98 Bolt-Action Rifle, 7x57mm, 22 in Barrel, Receiver Aperture Sight, 1946 Dated — Made in Turkey
This Kırıkkale Arsenal (K.Kale) Model 1938 is a Turkish-made Mauser 98 large-ring rifle built in 1946 and chambered in 7mm Mauser (7x57mm). It features the classic Turkish receiver-ring legend with the T.C. crest over crescent and star, "AS.FA," "ANKARA," and "K.KALE." The rifle has been sporterized with a 22-inch barrel and a receiver-bridge–mounted aperture/peep sight, offering a distinctive configuration that blends military heritage with practical updates.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The original factory bluing has largely worn to a gray or brown patina. There is widespread surface peppering from oxidation, with potential light pitting on the receiver or barrel. High-contact areas such as the bolt handle and floorplate are largely stripped of finish. The Turkish walnut stock shows extensive character with deep dings, scratches, and oil staining; minor hairline cracks may be present near the recoil lug or the buttplate, consistent with this grade.
What’s Included
- Kirikkale Arsenal (K Kale) Model 1938 bolt-action rifle chambered in 7mm Mauser (7x57mm)
- Receiver-bridge–mounted aperture/peep sight (installed)
The receiver ring carries the Turkish markings "T.C." over the crescent and star, "AS.FA," "ANKARA," and "K.KALE," with a 1946 date, clearly identifying its post-WWII production at Kırıkkale Arsenal. Made in Turkey, this example reflects the period’s state arsenal work and the well-known Turkish Mauser lineage.
Built on a Mauser 98 large-ring action, it retains controlled-round feed, a charger-clip guide, and a three-position wing safety. The bolt is straight with a round knob, and the internal 5-round box magazine uses a hinged floorplate for unloading. These core features underscore the strong, reliable character of the M98 platform.
This rifle has been sporterized and customized with a receiver-bridge–mounted aperture/peep sight. The barrel-mounted rear sight and the front sight assembly have been removed, and the upper handguard is not present. The barrel measures 22 inches, and the length of pull is 13.5 inches, yielding a handier profile while maintaining the Mauser action’s robustness.
The full-length lower wood stock includes an inletted butt disk and sling swivels. A nose cap with a transverse screw is fitted, and the cleaning rod is absent. The receiver is steel with a blued finish, aligning with the rifle’s original military specification while reflecting its later configuration and use.