Make: Mauser-Werke, Oberndorf on the Neckar

Model: K98k

Serial Number: 10967 a

Year of Manufacture: 1944

Caliber: 7.92x57mm (8mm Mauser)

Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked with, “byf / 44”. The left side of the receiver is marked, “10967 a / Mod.98”. All serialized parts are non-matching to the receiver save for the forend cap and rear sight. There are various Reichadlers and Waffenamt stamps throughout. The bottom metal and floor plate have crossed out with remarked serials. There is an import mark on the barrel. The sling is marked, “2809-7013”.

Barrel Length: 23.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a chevron post dovetailed to a serrated base with a protective hood. The rear sight is a v-notch sliding escalator assembly marked 1-20.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The laminate wood stock has a semi-pistol grip, scallop for the bolt handle, nose cap with bayonet lug, hole for the missing cleaning rod, through bolt, sling well, sling pass through, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate has impact marks, wear along the edges along with patina. There are compression marks, scuffs, minor chips, and scratches throughout the wood. There is a split in the left side of the buttstock. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original.

Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion in the bore with moderate spots of pitting. In this writer's opinion, this bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 5% of its metal finish. There is heavy patina and thinning throughout with scratches, nicks and light impact marks. There are spots of surface rust and small pitting marks throughout. The action has moderate wear and thick grease. The screw heads show light to moderate use. The markings that have not been peened off and are mostly well-defined. Overall, this rifle rates in about 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: Leather sling.

Our Assessment: The German K98k Mauser remains one of the most iconic bolt-action service rifles of the 20th century, widely recognized for its role as the primary infantry weapon of the Wehrmacht during World War II. This example, marked with the “byf 44” code, was produced in 1944 at the Mauser-Werke factory in Oberndorf—one of the later war production runs, reflecting a shift toward expediency in manufacturing while still retaining essential function and battlefield durability. Despite the accelerated wartime conditions, these rifles continued to demonstrate the robust design and reliable operation that made the Mauser 98 action the gold standard for bolt rifles around the world. This rifle shows heavy signs of service and age, with mismatched serial numbers, a weathered finish, and a gray, worn bore with heavy erosion. However, its laminated wood stock remains structurally intact aside from a split in the butt, and it retains desirable features like the laminated wartime stock, correct hooded front sight, and original sling pass-throughs. The presence of Reichsadler and Waffenamt stamps, even partially struck or worn, adds authenticity and historical interest. The action remains functional, and the rifle includes a period leather sling, furthering its display potential for historical enthusiasts.

Overall this byf 44 K98k is a compelling piece for collectors of WWII-era firearms or those with an interest in German military history. Its condition tells the story of a rifle that very likely saw field use in the closing chapters of the European conflict, and the Mauser legacy behind it remains as relevant today as it was in the trenches and forests of 1944. For those seeking a representative example of a late-war German infantry rifle, this one retains the character and features that define the model.