Make: Mauser-Werke AG, Werk Berlin-Borsigwalde, Eichborndamm, Germany

Model: K98k

Serial Number: 7455e

Year of Manufacture: 1937

Caliber: 8mm Mauser (7.92x57mm)

Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine. 

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “S/243 / 1937”. The left side of the receiver is marked with an Imperial Reichadler and, “7455e / Mod. 98”. The right side of the receiver has three “211” Waffenamt. The bolt is non-matched to the rifle, all other parts are matched. There are Waffenamt on the bottom metal, an Erma Werke Waffenamt on the pistol grip, and three Borsigwalde Waffenamt on the belly of the stock along with a matched serial number. The right side of the stock has a Reichsadler with a large “H” underneath followed by an Erma Werke Waffenamt and a Borsigwalde Waffenamt. There are various small Waffenamt throughout.

Barrel Length: 23.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a triangular post set atop a serrated ramped base. The rear sight is a sliding u-notch blade attached to an escalator assembly.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a capped forend/bayonet lug & cleaning rod, barrel band w/ sling bar, through bolt, semi-pistol grip, sling well & passthrough, bolt disassembly disc, straight comb, and steel buttplate. There are scratches, pressure dents, and small chips throughout. There are small cracks forming at the bottom metal and a small crack at the top forend. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is little to no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 70% of its metal finish. There are light scratches and handling marks throughout. There are moderate spots of of thinning and patina throughout. The action has moderate wear. The screw heads show light use. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good to Very Good condition. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This 1937-dated Mauser K98k, produced under the early “S/243” code at the Berlin-Borsigwalde plant, represents a crucial stage in the pre-war rearmament of Nazi Germany. Before standardizing with the "byf" and other numeric codes, manufacturers like Mauser-Werke used alphabetical prefixes to obscure production origins from Allied intelligence. The S/243 code identifies this rifle as an early-war production model from a highly desirable factory, making it especially significant to collectors. The K98k itself is a refinement of the Gewehr 98, purpose-built for the fast-moving, combined-arms tactics that would later define the Blitzkrieg. Its shorter length, integral sling mounts, and improved sights gave it superior handling compared to earlier long rifles. This example features a sharp, bright bore with strong rifling—exceptionally rare for a rifle of its age and wartime pedigree. The rifle retains about 70% of its original blued finish, with matching numbers found on most components except the bolt. The stock has deep historical appeal, with a host of visible Waffenamt stamps, including multiple Berlin-Borsigwalde acceptance marks and a distinctive Reichsadler with an “H” suffix, indicating Heer (Army) issue. Though there are expected handling marks and a few small cracks, the stock remains structurally sound and rich with its original inspector cartouches, lending weight to its authenticity.

Pre-war K98k rifles—especially those with early production codes like this S/243—are increasingly difficult to find in such complete and well-preserved condition. The crisp markings, largely matching components, and stellar bore make this a standout example for collectors focused on German military arms, World War II history, or the evolution of bolt-action rifles. Whether displayed for its historical value or preserved as a part of a serious collection, this 1937 K98k bridges the interwar period and the rise of modern mechanized warfare, capturing an important moment in small arms development and world history.