Matching K98 without receiver code!?

[Jupp]

Hello everybody

a friend of mine has a K98 with matching numbers, however, it has no receiver code.
Any comments to the history of this rifle would be highly appreciated. See photos attached.

Looking forward to your expertise

Best Regards,
Jupp

 

[Herk1994]

Firstly, the receiver code is the “ce” on top of the receiver. This indicates production at J.P. Sauer in 1942, hence the “42”.

I’m not sure how I feel about the bolt numbering...

The extra markings (976 and the little characters next to it) are not original and could indicate import (like an import stamp) to another European country but I’ll have to let someone else confirm that as I’m not sure.

 

[Zeppelin5000]

It is indeed an import. The shield and eagle/N are post war German nitro proofs. The caliber stamped on the receiver indicates it's an import too.

 

[flynaked]

The wartime fire proofs are not legally recognized in EU hence the reproofing in 1976. The numbering is original, it’s just completely refinished and surface ground in many areas. This one was sold through Waffen Frankonia.

 

[Jupp]

Wow,
I am really impressed, how much information is hidden in this rifle and how you experts decipher it!

The remaining question is, if the entire numbering is original, since Herk1994 had doubts regarding the bolt numbering?

Thanks to All!

 

[Jupp]

Here is more:
The description according to the quotation read:

"As far as can be seen, matching numbers, also the stock. Weapon was reworked, chamber ground and metal parts re-burnished. German reproofing from 9.76 present."

 

[flynaked]

You haven’t shown nearly all the numbering but what you have shown is correct. Sauer used a combination of fonts in this timeframe, the firing pin will be a different font than the rest of the bolt for instance. Also, it’s a Sauer stock, so it very likely is a complete match. While it maybe “matching numbers” that’s basically superfluous to the vast majority of collectors now given the complete refinishing of the rifle. Waffen Frankonia offered many such refinished rifles from various countries and hunting rifles made by various makers.

 

[mauser99]

interesting build... west german Id say.. If the bolt was renumbered it was done by the west germans in a typical German font and cursive M block. The reproofed next to the M. EagleN .
These are the highest quality and most desirable post war builds IMHO.. nice rifle..

 

[Jupp]

Thx everybody, great forum!!!

Jupp