Mauser K98k Rifle (Mauser-Werke Oberndorf “42”, 1940)
German WWII Karabiner 98k rifle manufactured at Mauser-Werke Oberndorf in 1940 (code “42”), serial no. 1436. Refurbished and imported by Mitchell’s Mausers in Premium Collector (PC) grade, now fitted with a post-war “Mauser” 4×40 scope of Japanese manufacture (1950s to 1960s era).
Images
Specifications
| General Information | |
|---|---|
| Country | Germany |
| Manufacturer | Mauser-Werke A.G., Oberndorf am Neckar (wartime code “42”) |
| Model | Karabiner 98k (K98k) |
| Year | 1940 |
| Serial Number | 1436 |
| Caliber | 7.92×57mm (8mm Mauser) |
| Action | Bolt-action, controlled-round feed (Model 98 system) |
| Finish | Refurbished blued finish and refinished stock |
| Optic | “Mauser” branded 4×40 scope (post-war, Japanese manufacture, 1950s to 1960s era) mounted on a modern-style base and rings |
| Markings | Receiver ring stamped “42” over “1940.” Left receiver marked “Mod.98” with serial “1436.” German military proofs and acceptance stamps present, including Waffenamt inspector mark WaA655. Minor parts show mixed serials or inspection codes, consistent with long service life and later refurbishment. |
Historical Summary
The Karabiner 98k was the standard German service rifle of World War II and the final wartime evolution of the Mauser Model 98 system. This example is a Mauser-Werke Oberndorf rifle produced in 1940, identified by the receiver ring code “42” and the date “1940,” with serial number 1436. It retains the characteristic German acceptance and inspector markings, including Waffenamt stamps, and it has been restored for the collector market.
Mauser-Werke Oberndorf Production (1940)
During the late 1930s and early war period, Mauser-Werke Oberndorf was one of the principal producers of the K98k. To obscure arms production locations, German factories used ordnance codes in place of full manufacturer names. On Mauser Oberndorf rifles, the code “42” is associated with this plant during this period. A 1940 date places the rifle in an early-war production context, prior to the major material shortcuts and simplified late-war machining seen later in the conflict.
Serial Number, Proofs, and Waffenamt WaA655
The receiver ring on this rifle shows the standard “42 / 1940” arrangement. On the receiver side, “Mod.98” identifies the standard Mauser 98 action pattern used for the K98k. German military proof and acceptance stamps are visible, including an eagle proof and Waffenamt inspector markings. The WaA655 code is commonly associated with Mauser inspection for this era. As with many surviving K98k rifles, smaller components can show a mix of serials or inspection codes due to field replacement, arsenal repair, or post-war assembly from parts.
Post-War Surplus and Mitchell’s Mausers Restoration
After World War II, large numbers of K98k rifles were collected into European arsenals and later released as surplus. In the United States, Mitchell’s Mausers became well known for importing these rifles and presenting them in restored condition. The Premium Collector (PC) grade line emphasized strong bores, crisp markings, and an attractive, uniform appearance. This rifle shows the hallmarks of that approach, including a refinished stock and a deep, even blue on the metalwork. It should be understood as a restored historical firearm rather than an untouched bring-back. Mitchell’s Mausers advertising touted these as “Original German Mausers from WW2,” in different advertising circles which tainted their reputation. Collectors consider these rifles restored rather than untouched originals. The company and Don Mitchell himself actually earned strong praise, receiving magazine awards from Guns & Ammo, Shooting Times, and American Rifleman. These included honors such as Editor’s Choice, Best Value, Best Restoration, and Top Import. Reviewers consistently highlighted the rifles’ attractive finish, smooth actions, excellent accuracy, and their ability to produce tight groups with surplus 8mm ammunition.
Scope Origin and Post-War Relevance
One distinctive feature of this rifle is its Mauser 4×40 magnification. This is not a Wehrmacht-issue optic, but rather a post-WWII addition. Mauser manufactured riflescopes in the 1950s–1960s in Japan and were styled to evoke WWII-era German sniper optics while remaining practical sporting sights. The Mauser 4×40 scopes were made under contract by the well-known Japanese optics manufacturer Hakko. The scope on this rifle, serial No. 19036, falls into that category. The scope has “Made in Japan” stamped, under the turret housing.
Collector Notes
- The receiver code and date (“42 / 1940”) firmly identify Mauser-Werke Oberndorf production.
- Serial 1436 appears on the major components shown (receiver and bolt). Minor parts may be mixed, which is common on rifles with long service and later refurbishment.
- The WaA655 inspector marking is consistent with Mauser inspection stamps used in this period.
- The “Mauser” 4×40 scope is a post-war commercial optic and should not be treated as an original WWII sniper configuration.
- Mitchell’s Mausers restoration improves appearance and shootability, but it places the rifle in the “restored surplus” category rather than untouched collector-original.
Provenance
Produced at Mauser-Werke Oberndorf in 1940. Later held in post-war surplus channels and imported into the United States by Mitchell’s Mausers, where it was refurbished and marketed as Premium Collector (PC) grade. Present configuration includes a post-war “Mauser” branded Japanese-made 4×40 scope.