I want to reiterate that I do not know that the paper is a fraud, - I do think that it is very unlikely two sellers overlooked mention of it but then again the impossible happens in politics on a daily basis... the rifle itself is fine and rather a rarity in this condition, it is no "shooter grade" or disposable humped POS.Thanks for your research! With the rifle coming out of state and being a legitimate address in downtown Tulsa It does give me SOME what of a feeling as to being legitimate but only one way to find out and that is a records check thru a private investigator of the vet service number and family name history research. I also have a 1899 Spandau with a service number stamped into the butt plate so when I get the chance (aka funds) I'll also have that Gewehr 98m and this rifle researched. If the paper is humped then no sweat off my nose. Just more of and excuse to clean it up, shoot it and toss a humped piece of paper in the trash.
*** this is often a tricky decision, when I discover in the database an "improvement", especially like this situation (a good guy's deal 4-5 years late, I question the need to mention it, but I thought it might be worth examining the subject here - Jdt I think you are a fine newer collector and none of these posts were meant to offend you, and anyone that has been around for anytime at all know I have a high tolerance for making people I disagree with angry... or at least that is often the intention)