1863

Unique WWI 1917 Dated DWM Gew 98 Bolt Action Rifle with Rare Wagner Patent "Aircraft Sights"

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:800.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 4,000.00 USD
Unique WWI 1917 Dated DWM Gew 98 Bolt Action Rifle with Rare Wagner Patent  Aircraft Sights
This is an example of a difficult to find WWI German Bolt action service rifle that is a totally matching serial numbered specimen. These were the standard rifle as used by the German infantry through out the World War I. It is distinguished by the long barrel with full length stock and the large "Lange Vizier" or "roller coaster" rear sight. The receiver ring is marked with the imperial proofs on both sides and the top is marked "DEUTSCHEWAFFEN -UND/ MUNITIONS BERLIN" over 1917 the year of manufacture. The receiver side wall is marked "GEW98" and it has the straight handle bolt, milled arsenal renumbered trigger guard and floor plate,(old number struck and numbered underneath) the rear sight has the range markings on the sides of the sight base, which was designed for the improved 8mm round. Each sight has the addition of a right side extended sighting system with the base of the rear sight extension marked "M. WAGNER, TRER / BUCHSENMACHER" and "D.R.G.M. / P.a.". The latter marking also appears on the front sight extension. (Writer believes the aforementioned sighting device was intended for firing at aircraft, much like the sights used by the Japanese on Type 99s in World War II). The stock is the correct full length military version with finger grooves, handguard ahead of the rear sight and an Imperial proof in the wrist area, and the matching serial number and proofmark on the underside. It is complete with an original cleaning rod and un-numbered Simson bayonet with serrated wood handle and metal scabbard.
BBL: 29 1/2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 7.92 mm Mauser
Finish: blue/bright
Grips:
Serial Number: 9060
Condition: Very good. The barrel, bands, trigger guard and floor plate have a smooth brown patina. The receiver retains 98% original bright finish with some speckled discoloration. The stock is also very good with a few shallow gouges on the comb area, a pieced in repair on the right side at the action and scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The bayonet is very good and the scabbard retains 98% original blue finish with some light spotting. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.