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Scarce WWII "ax" Code Feinmechansiche Werke K98 Bolt Action Rifle with Bayonet

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:900.00 USD Estimated At:2,250.00 - 3,500.00 USD
Scarce WWII  ax  Code Feinmechansiche Werke K98 Bolt Action Rifle with Bayonet
This is a nice example of a rare "ax" code k98 rifle manufactured by Feinmechanische Werke, G.m.b.H., Erfurt, Altonaerstr. In 1941. In mid 1940 the "27" code of Erma was replaced by the "ax" code of Feinmechansiche Werke. It is estimated that 70,000 to 75,000 of this code rifle were manufactured which is about the same number of "27" k98 rifles, however the "ax" code k98 rifles are much rarer. The "ax" coded rifle differed only in the change of the manufacturers code. In 1941 the "ax" code K98 rifles changed to the use of a two digit serial numbering system instead of the four and saw the introduction of the 12 1/2" cleaning rod, a cupped buttplate and the deletion of the external proofing and numbered of the stock. The top of the receiver ring is marked "ax / 41" the right side is correctly marked with two "eagle/280" Waffenamt proof marks and one "eagle/359" proof and the left side is marked with the Nazi firing proof and the serial number. The left rear of the barrel is also marked with the Nazi firing proof and serial number, and the right side is marked "38140R" . The left side wall is marked "Mod.98". The rifle has all milled parts, most are proofed and the visible serial numbers all match. Hooded front sight and tangent rear sight graduated to 2,000 meters and mounted with a one piece laminated pistol grip stock with matching hand guard and cupped buttplate. The left side of the buttstock is marked with the stick wing Nazi eagle over "H" (signifying army issue) and two Waffenamt 280 proofs, the same two proofs in the grip area and "P / serial number / Waffenamt proof" on the bottom. Complete with a "41 cof" code bayonet with Bakelite handle, metal scabbard and leather frog, leather sling, and cleaning rod.
BBL: 24 inch round
Stock: laminated
Gauge: 8mm
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 8696
Condition: Very fine. The rifle retains 70% original blue finish with scattered areas thinned with a smooth brown or gray. The stock is also very fine with overall scattered minor scraps, dents and dings. The stock markings are clear. The markings on the rifle are crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The sling is good with some moderate to heavy wear. The bayonet is excellent. The scabbard and frog are very good with a smooth brown patina on the scabbard and a few minor age cracks on the frog. A rare "ax" code K98 rifle that would make a great addition to any 98Kcollection.