Interesting Mauser K98, gun show find

[apu]

So just got back from Brandon gun show where I picked up a different K98. On initial glance it looked like a G33/40 with the characteristic short barrel and buttstock sheet metal. I knew it was not a G33/40 right away with the obvious marking as a Sauer and sons manufactured K98. The barrel,bolt, magazine plate, buttplate and furniture are numbers match. Weirdly there is no sign of the typical rear sight instead it seems replaced by a simple but nicely inletted flip up on rear of action. Barrel length is approximately 18.5 inches. Muzzle is nicely crowned, bore looks perfect with nice deep, clean rifling, the metal and solid wood furniture look in very good condition. The wood appears unsanded. the best I can guess is that the barrel was cut to mimic a G33/40 a long time ago when a K98 was only worth $50. I can't imagine otherwise why someone would cut up a numbers matching unmolested K98 otherwise. Regardless it appears very nicely and likely professionally done.

I have posted pictures in case anyone has any ideas as to what I have here and is contrary to my current thoughts. I appreciate the thoughts and help of the resident Mauser experts.

 

[Volhv]

I'm no expert, but have seen a fair share, and am interested in k98s.
I think the serial on the bolt handle has been force matched. Eagles on stock and fitting are also suspect. (wrong type of eagle on small metal parts along with off placement.)
That being said, a cool little rifle, and for the right price, I would have picked it up also.

 

[fraserdw]

Bull #### rifle. Lots of suspect in it. Parts gun maybe?

 

[pcvando]

Ahaha wow! Someone went nuts with the fake WaA eagle proofs.

 

[apu]

Bull #### rifle. Lots of suspect in it. Parts gun maybe?

Suspect no doubt, but it was never represented as anything but a functional short barreled K98, which I believe it is. If it groups reasonably well I think it will make a fine bush rifle. I don't think I see the need to part it just yet .

 

[CanadianAR]

I also believe it’s mostly fantasy, BUT I actually like it. If it shoots well I think it’s cool. It’s got the cool stock, short, handy, maybe better sights?? How was the price?

 

[gordonlbyrne]

nice rifle ,definitly reworked by someone ,the way the serial # on the bolt handle isnt typical for a k98 but i have seen the exact same method before on other k98 rifles .Dose anyone know who might have done this ,looks similar to yugo style serial numbering.

 

[apu]

Found a g33 bolt to try. The deception is now complete but alas not matching anymore. Took her to the farm on weekend. She shoots real nice, no problem picking off beers can at 30-40 yards, should do fine as a bush beast.