Mauser Gewehr 98M 8mm – 1914, 1920 WEIMAR RESTAMP, 1934 TANGENT

Vintage Firearms is pleased to present a rather obscure variant of the renowned Gewehr 98. The Mauser action is ubiquitous, having been employed in some fashion by over 30 countries and countless groups, known for being a strong and reliable action. The Gewehr 98 served as the German service rifle through the first world war and continued service in some capacity during the interwar period, eventually being phased out in favor of the Kar 98K. After Germany’s defeat in the first world war, the Weimar government, in an attempt to crack down on illegal gun ownership, would restamp the year above the manufacturer mark, to indicate government ownership. During the interwar period the Reichswehr and later, the Wehrmacht would update and refurbish the still existing Gewehr 98 rifles, leading to what’s been dubbed the Gewehr 98M. They were typically barreled and had the “rollercoaster” sights of the original Gewehr 98 upgraded to the Kar 98K style tangent rear sight. These rifles were most notably used by German volunteers in the Spanish Civil War. This example, serial number 1679e was originally manufactured in 1914 and in 1920 was marked as government property. This rifle has matching serial numbers on the receiver and barrel, while the bolt, extractor, and magazine safety share a different serial number, which could indicate interwar ‘re‑arsenaling.’ The rear tangent sight was manufactured in 1934, indicated by the ‘S/42K’ stamped on the right side of the barrel below the sight. The receiver retains 97% finish, the barrel retains 98% finish and the bore rates a 7.5/10 with strong rifling. What an interesting rifle with so much history and a perfect choice for the Mauser or Militaria collector. These rifles are not terribly common, so don’t hesitate or it’ll be gone! Have a look at the detailed specifications and pictures below. Thanks for looking!