Deactivated RARE WWI German Kar98 AZ

A rare First World War German KAR98 (Karabine Model 1898az) with imperial German army acceptance stamps, dated 1918 and manufactured by Erfurt. The initial "A" stood for "with bayonet", the "Z" referred to the stacking L shape rod attachment. This is a very interesting gun, the receiver, barrel, magazine assembly, barrel bands, complete end cap assembly are all matched parts. The bolt is matched but not to the gun. The wood work, which is the correct period Beech wood with finger grasping grooves, has been cut and then mated back together. This was most likely done by a British soldier. Cutting it in this way is often referred to as a 'duffle cut',  making it easier to smuggle back in a kit bag. The Kar98 was used by the original German "Storm Troopers" during first world war trench raiding parties. The Kar98 being shorter and lighter than the standard issued Gew98s and having a distinctive "drop down" cocking lever. They were also used extensively by various units and regiments including cavalry and mountain troops with many seeing active service during WWII. This rare carbine comes with an equally rare original 1917 dated bayonet & scabbard with leather frog and a leather sling, plus its original muzzle dust cover. Deactivated with a working action it can be cocked, stripped and dry fired.

AP