I always thought the "declining standards" related more to cosmetics than function. I have seen quite a few 44 and 45 dated K98k's that may have looked a little rough but functioned and shot just as well as pre-war manufacture, though maybe not quite as smooth.
k98 all matching, found one
- Thread starter Ingo
- Start date
You could be right ....
When I put one of my 38 Obie's beside a 43, I see s noticeable difference in manufacturing attention to detail, fit and finish, as well of course, marking details. I also find the bolt is smoother in action, but that may be just these two examples and not a fair comparison.
Regards,
Doug
After the war Czechoslovakia turned out a lot of nice K98k's, some of them fitted with rejected Nazi parts. The German people have a reputation for doing it right in most cases. Even rifles turned out in the last weeks of the war seem to have most of the proper WaA stampings put on by their inspectors. I agree, the pre-war Oberndorfs have outstanding fit and metal polish. I think the most beautiful service rifles ever produced. I have read that to produce the equal of say a 1938 Oberndorf K98k today would result in a price tag in excess of $2500.
I noticed similar differences between my 1940 J.P Sauer & Sohn and my 1944 Gustloff Werke. The overall fit and finish on my Gustloff is rougher and WaA and typical inspection marks are scarce but she can match my J.P. in terms of shooting performance.
Nice rifle! Cut down the stock a little, give it some varnish, and some hand checkering. If you have a drill press, you can drill and tap some holes for a scope!
Just kidding. Don't do that. You are the lucky custodian of a very nice, original rifle. Don't let sandpaper, varnish or a drill anywhere near that thing!What's the vet's story?
Thank-you to all for the interest and great comments.
It makes me feel good to know so many ofter people appreciate this piece of history too.
Revilo, I'm trying to find out what the vet's story is. The fellow I bought the K98 from is asking a surviving relative about it.
It makes me feel good to know so many ofter people appreciate this piece of history too.
Revilo, I'm trying to find out what the vet's story is. The fellow I bought the K98 from is asking a surviving relative about it.
Nice rifle! Cut down the stock a little, give it some varnish, and some hand checkering. If you have a drill press, you can drill and tap some holes for a scope!
What's the vet's story?
why not carve nice moosehead/deer running figures--one on each side of the stock?? nice gun like that DESERVES some nice stockwork.
yours sincerely
bubba
