That's completely wild. I just picked up a Kar98k a few weeks ago at a gun show here in Ohio. It's also a 1938 243 marked. It seems to be a Russian Capture as well. What serial numbers is yours stamped with?
I Love My Russian Capture, Kar98K. It's like a sleeper, with it's red shiny stock, it's black parkerizing, it's electro-penciled bolt... underneath all of that it has a shiny bore, and headspaces correctly, and locks up tight. It shoots great! I've shot it out to 800 yards, using the sight adjustment and it was right on target when using 198gr full power ammo, (PRVI). Also, mine came with a Kar98 AZ bolt rather than a regular old Kar98K bolt. Mine is 1940, marked 243. It was thought to be crap because nobody knew why someone would electro-pencil the bolt, and treat a Mauser so ridiculously, putting black stuff all over it... Not very many people know about Russian Captures. By the way my original German serial number is, "4640" if any of your guys have that bolt, I'll trade you my bolt body for your bolt body. Same thing with Trigger Guard and other parts. If you have Russian capture with original German (receiver and barrel) serial number 7827 I have your trigger guard, and 2667, I have your safety selector... We should all list the various serial numbers and put all of our original rifle back together again.
Did the extractor have a serial number? My K-98 is a war trophy my dad sent back during the campaign in Italy. All other part numbers match. Had a collector make a big deal about the lack of a number on the extractor. Doesn't matter, not selling my dad's souvenir from the war.
Do not take this wrong way...just stating what I see regularly in the Army HQ building that I work in...they have in a display case an original K98 donated by the Army's official historian directorate. The serial numbers in the bolt carrier group on that one are not pencil marked...they are machine stamped deep into the metal. There are pencil marked serial numbers in other places of the rifle. I wonder if it was simply different from one manufacturer to another for how the serial numbers were applied.
A lot of collectors like to bash people for buying Russian captured k98s, but they are really nice rifles. Some people are under the misconception that these are 100% mixed up part rifles, but they are not. The barrel, receiver, and sight bases are all matching. Even though the other parts are not matching, they are still authentic german manufactured parts from WW2. When these first arrived on the surplus market, they had very little collector value. Now that the surplus has dried up, collectors are now starting to recognize the true value behind them. The history behind them is really cool too. They were used on some of the most brutal battlefields of the eastern front.
I think RCs make an interesting type of rifle to collect all on their own. They come in a variety of markings and conditions and a collector could have quite the assortment for much cheaper than any other German Mauser.
North Florida Gun Guy i totally agree, RC k98s are definitely interesting rifles to collect, and for affordable prices too. Well at least they used to be affordable, some pull around $900 on GunBroker. I have two RC k98s and I love them both.
I have two German 98ks, plus an Israeli 7.62 conversion. One is a Russian capture, the other has all matching numbers except the bolt. If I could only have one rifle, it would be a German 98k, Russian capture or not.
It's interesting to see someone on the internet say that people are "under the misconception that these are 100" mixed up part rifles," yet people are quite to say somehow the matching parts on Mitchel's Mausers (MM) (which are all RC) somehow are all "Forced Matched" or all of the metal grinded down so they could re-stamp "forgery" serial numbers. I know that MM aren't necessarily a good collector K98 (because of how they refurbished them), but I've yet to see real evidence that their RC capture matching numbers are fake, but "ALL" other RC are real.
Russian capture k98s don't always have matching barrel and receivers. I have 3 and the barrels don't match the receivers on mine. They have the electro penciled bolts and the x stamped on the receiver. Whether the barrels were changed by the Germans before capture or by the Russians after capture I don't know.
@@DelGTAGrndrs They go for that in Europe, You can buy a German Mauser with 3 Reich markings ad matching numbers for less than $1000 in Europe. Russian captures or Yugo models are half of that.
I have both a Russian capture k98 and a Yugo refurbished k98 (not the m48) the Russian is a 1937 Sauer & Sohn and the Yugo once I got the wood off was able to decide it was a 1943 Mauser manufactured ,the Russian is quite worn with maybe 30% blue and okay bore with all matching numbers (even the bolt) and the Yugo is in perfect shape with a miss matched bolt but everything else matches…I think I payed around $179 each back in the late 90’s early 2000’s ….those days are far gone but I feel fortunate to have been able purchase them when I did …great video got me thinking about the fun days of old …
I have an SWP45 RC K98. Came with the cleaning rod too. I bought an original K98 period German used sling for it. Cleaned off the Russian shellac. Added back original capture screws under trigger guard. Bought an original period K98 sight hood, I have yet to place on the sight. Has the purple toned extractor on the bolt. I am the first owner of this rifle after the gun dealer who purchased a bunch directly from importer in late 1990's. p.s. Paid only $179.99 for it back then.
One thing I tell people, I WOULD ALWAYS prefer a Russian Capture to any other variants because 1.) it is automatic proof it saw SOMETHING whether it was combat or it simply touched both a German and a Soviet Soldier 2.) It is automatic proof it is original from WW2 3.) It belonged to 2 empires that no longer exist today (Nazi Germany and USSR), which I believe in a future may be worth more than other K98S. 4.) It is automatic proof it served in a specific theater, Eastern Front. Lastly, 5.) The barrel and receiver are the same, untouched, meaning the original barrel and receiver from which the German soldier loaded and fired the round is still in the RC K98.
It is NOT proof it served anywhere, Eastern Front or otherwise. They were snatched up wherever the were found, whether that was when dropped in Stalingrad or found in a warehouse post-war. I love mine but there's no way they will ever be worth more than a "correct" model, which is all-matching and has all the correct period parts on it.
Thanks for this and your other informative videos. I just picked up a 98 just like the one in the vid (same marking & date). The prior owner drilled and tapped with a Leupold base and rings w/o a stock (broken). I think the Leupold and gunsmithing costs more than the Mauser. Hah! It will make a good target/hunting piece.
I enjoyed your post. My K98K is almost identical to this one with 2 exceptions. On mine the buttplate and bolt disassembly ring are in the white. The stock has been coated in shellac. The receiver and barrel have no swastikas and the receiver has been stamped with a Yugoslavia symbol. It's a very accurate rifle.
Funny you mentioned the Mosin. Back in the day a guy bought one and it didn't shoot worth a crap. He wrote a letter to shotgun news asking what he could do to make it more accurate. They replied, "Get rid of it and buy a better gun."
I have one of these, rechambered post war to accomodate the US 30.06 round, with slight modification done to the receiver ring to fit the longer round, thicker front post, U-notch instead of V-notch rear sight and a set of new serial number and service branch insignia. (Norwegian post war issue) It's a great gun. A lot more accurate than I'll ever be, strong action, reliable feeding, and just feels great to handle. Got it for like 80 bucks, and after a tiny bit of love and cleaning, it's as new. Never getting another bolt-action, as this will serve my hunting-purposes just fine.
My K98K is a byf '41. It has been blackened. No matching numbers. No electro penceling, no X's, no numbers on the butt stock. All of the swastika's are still intact. No paint on the stock as far as I can judge... I found the gun in The Netherlands. The gun has no backstory. What do you think?
Found a "bnz 41" RC in my local pawn shop yesterday for $400 and immediately put my card on the counter! It's like yours in that the stock has no shellac of any kind on it, though it retains its original blueing (no black finish with the exception of the butt plate), matching rear and front sights, still has the cleaning rod and retaining screws, the stock is not force matched, the takedown disc is still in the white, swastikas are unpeened, and there is zero electro-penciling to speak of. I know it's RC though because of the crossed swords "X" mark on the receiver.
Nice video! I added a Russian capture to my safe not long ago. The rifle was in a synthetic Boyd sporter stock. I found a complete Russian capture stock with all furniture except cleaning rod on eBay, and put the barreled action in the wooden stock. The mismatched number on the stock is the only real give-away that the rifle isn't as left by a Russian armorer. It's a shame that they couldn't spare the time to keep matching parts together, but I suspect that the interests of future American collectors weren't their foremost concern at the time, lol! Mine has the swastikas peened out.
I just purchased a k98 that the stock has been "sporterized". The 3 numbers on the bolt assembly match. There's no electric pencil etchings anywhere on the gun. The gun is a 1939 with a 42 stamp. The only crazy marks ive found are under the rear flip up sight. Looks like a couple numbers were crossed out. I think it was a Russian capture, but for whatever reason they didn't dissemble it. But I'm replacing the butchered stock and want to make sure the later stocks fit on my 1939 barrel/bolt trigger guard assembly? I only paid 400 bucks for the gun, so I'm buying all orginal era parts. Sub'ed to your channel. I enjoy your vids, keep them coming.
I recently acquired a Mauthausen production K98 which does not appear to be a russian capture, It is all numbers matching, does not have the peened markings or the "X" etc and the buttplate is almost shiny metal as is the bolt takedown disc. The stock itself is a very light coloration of wood. Considering sigthing it in Saturday if the weather holds. Its a smooth action and is scoped.
Hey Milsurp World! Great video. May I suggest you do a video on how to tell if your WW2 German Mauser is NOT a Russian capture (RC). As best you can. I bought a beauty BCD 1942 on Gun Broker for $1,100 in spring 2018. It's all matching. But I did find a "Germany" in very fine print on the receiver near the stock. Having Grandparents born in Germany I know that Germans do not call "Germany" Germany. Lol. I love the rifle anyway! But I would imagine that most collectors actually end up buying a RC while thinking they're buying an authentic all matching K98 German WW2 Mauser/US Vet bring back. Your insight would be interesting to both new and experienced collectors. Love your stuff. Thanks. New York, USA 2019
I have one that has the original finish, most of the bluing, all the symbols are punched out but the byf in the 4, and most of the numbers are matching but the Box plate. do you have any thoughts about it
Great video and solid information. Could you explain, in a little more detail, the note about your stock being red? Mine stock is the same way, but its an all original bcd4. Thanks!
Also my RC has a capitol and lowercase G stamped on the left side of the receiver and there are 7 symbols that look kinda like triplanes that have “WaA623” stamped underneath, what do these mean?
The "triplanes" and WaA623 is called a Waffenamp. Its actually an eagle. Waffenamps are inspector marks for when a part of the rifle passes inspection.
I just bought a Russian capture the other day due to the rarity of them where I'm at. And I'm honestly impressed with the rework the Russians did. It still runs smoothly but are ever any Russian captures the the round front sight still attached instead of just the sight itself?
I am not sure they blued over all the rust. Maybe mild surface rust, but deep pitting I think they probably grit blasted or chemically treated prior to finishing them, otherwise some of the rust would probably come through. I could be wrong, and maybe their bluing process was adequate to reverse even bad rust since bluing is a form of controlled corrosion itself. I just figure if they were going through all that trouble, they would have treated the metal prior to finishing them. Sweet rifle, don't let anyone ever tell you that a RC K98 isn't a respectable collectible. They will never be worth as much as all correct rifles, but value has steadily increased and they are worth more than a lot of other surplus Mausers because you can't deny their origin.
Have a K98 that of everything you listed, only has the blackened numbers on the sight and an electro-penciled bolt. Everything but my bolt are matching numbers. So I'm not sure what it would be or what company would have marked it like it has been.
I have a Russian capture with no x's, all the black, the symbols and Eagles are gone, original finish i think, but all the numbers are matching but the box plate. any thoughts or ideas?
I recently picked up a German K98 made in 1941 and it was a Russian capture but the only markings it has is two cross markings otherwise it has the numbers and swastika with eagle. It’s a pleasure to shoot and for what I paid for it I don’t regret it.
Just checked mine butt plate in the white well worn blueing bolt receiver and floor plate all matching numbers. except for some nimrod sanding and shiny stuff the stock i think i have a G.I. bring back.
Mine has all matching action except the firing pin and stock. The butt plate is right, so is the barrell. The fingerguard and magazine are also not matching. Anyway, the reason im sayin this is that most russian captures have the main most important parts matching. Even vet bring backs are sometimes mosmatched due to parts wearing out etc.
I like your video. Don't like guns that much, but I had a brand new one that was never shot. I did use it many times and enjoyed fitting it. Sorry I departed with it and now looking to buy one but want a mint condition.
the laminated stock I belive was adopted 1942 onwards, and hooded sites. I brought a 1938 Mauser had a 9 out of 10 barrel but the previous owner had messed with the but and installed a laminated but plate why I'll never know. to be honest nice rifle good to work with but still preferred the 303 for accuracy. just my opinion.
8mm is more accurate and more capable of reaching further than 303. It also has the benefit of not getting rim-lock. I do like shooting 303 though as it is a slightly softer shooting round.
+North Florida Gun Guy, Both rifles are classic and great fun to shoot still like the 303 more lol but also really like the P14/17. to think about it I like them all but would love to fire a Springfield still haven't had that chance yet. great channel buy the way thanks for your reply to my first comment.
hello, hopefully you can help me. i just bought a k98 and i see no x's or any peening on it. all numbers are matching. however, the sight is blued/black as is the bolt tool hole in the stock. it is marked "dou" and 44 on top. I'm trying to figure out if it's worth collecting and keeping or turning it into a shooter. thanks!
If the numbers are all matching it's definitely a collector, the blacked out rear sight and disassembled disc is weird though. Anything else off about it?
@@MilsurpWorld not that i know of. This is my first one so im kind of diving in head first. Its missing a cleaning rod. Not sure if that is important. Its got a protective type grease all over it that needs entire disassembly to clean off. Like someone tried to keep it from rusting all these years. Anything you can think of to have me check?
I would say look for any markings that aren't German around the reciever/barrel assembly. Check the stock for any cartouches under the wrist and on the side.
I have a question, I recently bought a rifle at a military vehicle show it is marked dou 42. I assume that is 1942 right? I can’t find any numbers on the stock, but it has a flat steel buttplate with a matching number. All the numbers I can find match except the bolt assembly(it’s not a bent bolt). There’s no possible way this could be a Russian capture right? Did the Germans number the stocks? If so where?
Great information. Thank you. So if the serial number is stamped long ways on the stock as shown on yours it is definitely a Russian capture? Do you know what a large 6 pointed symbol kind of like a star or extended asterisk on the receiver means?
Would need to know other factors first. Is the stock or any parts refinished? Are there any numbers on the left side if the buttstock close to the takedown disc? Are swastikas in the waffenamps peened?
Negative, appears to be original finish (glossy bluing) Swastikas are still present in Waffenamts though all the visible ones are rather small. Waffenamt stamp on stock is still visible. No additional numbers or crest present besides the original script. Laminate stock and S/42 sights.
@@echodelta2172 Sounds like a mystery mismatch. Could be a build or project rifle, could be a rifle that somebody mixed up a bunch of parts on. Could be a post war used rifle and matching numbers didnt matter to whoever had it. It's hard to know.
Nice video man. I've got a k98 that, from my research, appears to be a non Russian capture rifle. It has 3 non matching parts (front barrel band, magazine plate, and the part above the trigger guard) , intact nazi marks, and no shellac or other finish on the wood and stock parts. There are no "X" marks on the gun, and no electro penciling. Really the only thing that might make it a Russian capture are those 3 missing parts. Aside from that, everything else looks to be original German. I'm no expert, but really like the gun. What do you think?
Hi, I have question- i recently bought a kar98k mauser, but i have problems identifying it- it is refinished, mostly non-matching numbers the receiver is marked BNZ-43, mod98, but all of waffenamts had been crudely grounded off, and eagle on receiver had beaten out swastika and wings, the bolt also have no nazi markings except numbers which seems to be re-numbered- numbers on small parts are grounded off and bolt is refinished and has plum tone finish like on soviet SVT-40 rifle bolt. The stock have no bolt take down ring- it is not VZ-24 stock- there are no groves for better grip, and it has been covered with some red tone colour, and it is numbered in area arround grip. The barrel seems to be non-matching- and has some crude markings like russian "G" letter and number 3.
If the eagles and swastikas are ground off its probably a captured rifle. The Russians and the Yugos renumbered parts with an electro pencil. If there are numbers on the side of the buttstock like in this video then its Russian but if the numbers are vertical then its a Yugo. The plum extractor color is normal and is that way on most rifles. The stock without the takedown hole could be a late war stock if it has a hole in the cupped buttplate for the takedown. Really I would need to see some pictures to better identify, too many questions I have that could be answered with a couple pictures.
North Florida Gun Guy Allright, thanks for answer. It is kinda strange mix-match rifle- but it was the best option out there- in our country. Nothing to chose from. I could make a picture slideshow later.
Hi, sorry for late response. I am from other side of Atlantic ocean, Baltic states- which explains the limited choice in surplus firearms since there are strictly regulated laws, and demand is sort of unexistant.
The Mauser 98 service rifle is beautiful and has a strong front locking action that can be readily rechambered for a wide range of rimless hunting rounds like the 9.3x62mm big game round, but was a second-rate service rifle. The simpler and more robust Mosin-Nagant (pronounced ‘Mo-seen Na-gon’) - which was affectionately called the “Mosinka” by Russian soldiers - is a much better service rifle thanks in large part to its quick release magazine floorplate that allows quick and easy cleaning if dust, sand, dirt or mud gets into the action without the use of tools. Even better is the Lee-Enfield service rifle which had a rear locking action that was far easier to clean if dust, sand, dirt or mud got into the locking lug recesses, and uses easily cleaned quick detachable 10 round magazine (double the capacity of the 98 and Mosinka which use non-detachable magazines). You can also single load a round directly into the chamber of the Mosinka and Lee-Enfield if something went wrong with the magazine without a problem, but try doing so with the 98 and you will likely break the extractor. The best Mauser type rifle is the contemporary CRF Winchester Model 70 which has a quick release magazine floorplate, a coned breech, an easy to use 3-positon side-swing safety that facilitates the use of a low mounted telescopic sight, and a bevelled extractor that allows you to single load a round directly into the chamber without breaking the extractor. That said, if I had to grab one of these rifles for use in any conditions I'd grab a Lee-Enfield (No. 5 “Jungle Carbine”), but would favor a Mosinka (M38 Carbine) if I wanted the most rugged rifle; though the M70 is arguably better for use against dangerous game thanks to its CRF action (better feed reliability) and a much easier to use safety than those used by the 98 and the Mosinka (if not the Lee-Enfield which has an excellent safety). If debris gets into the front locking lugs recesses of the 98, Mosinka or M70 you will want a toothbrush and a water canteen to clean it out. Lee-Enfield rifles in good condition are no longer readily available but Mosinkas are. The Molot KO-91/30 M hunting rifle is essentially a refurbished Mosin-Nagant M91/30 service rifle with a shorter barrel, a turned down bolt handle to facilitate the use of telescopic sights, and a quick detach AK type side mount.
Richard have to agree with you completely. I own examples of each, including a #5 "Jungle Carbine". I love the k98 for it's strength and precision, The Mosin just feels the best to me, and the Enfield shoots fast and has ten rounds. If I had to bug out with one of these antiques it would be the Enfield just for the capacity, the rapid fire, and it's strong enough for the cartridge it shoots.
I have a Mosin M38 Carbine (made in 1941) which is markedly lighter and hander than the K98k if a little heavier than the No. 5. The latter feels less sturdy than the M38 due to its greater bulk and reduced weight, like comparing a small steel frame revolver with a slightly lighter medium frame revolver with an aluminium frame. The No. 5 makes more sense from a practical perspective, but I like the M38 more due to its simplicity, strength, ruggedness and 'feel'. I also love their history as they were commonly used by partisans like Sarah Ginaite (there is a great photo of her on the Web with an M38).
Yet the Russian rifles worked in extreme cold and were not prone to magazine jams thanks in large part to the ease with which their magazines could be cleaned, which helps explain why the Russians defeated the German invaders. The Mosin-Nagant is also an inherently more rugged design than the Mauser, much as Russian tanks like the T-34/85 were more rugged than German tanks like the Tiger and Panther which were prone to breaking down even in good conditions.
Well gentleman, I will have to agree to disagree, the lee Enfield was a great weapon it was inherently dependable, but it did have some delicate parts on it , one being the rear sight, However the Mosin I can't even put in the same room as the other two weapons it was a s crude as come, it worked thats all I can say about the rifle I owned a American one made By White Westinghouse and it was the only one I ever felt like wouldn't just fall apart anytime, ! , the German 98 was a work of art beautifully well built the entire gun screamed quality, I own 2 a 1941 and a 1917 Gew 98 in a 318 bore, I would have to say if I had to run out the door with one of the 3, I would have to choose the 98K
I have a Russian capture with no x's, all the black, the swastikas and Eagles are gone, original finish i think, but all the numbers are matching but the box plate. any thoughts or ideas?
I think it's a capture rifle by another country. I think a lot of the Balkan countries did similar things to K98ks after the war. It might be Romanian captured, it's hard to always tell on those.
Price depends on condition, year of manufacture, what factory made it, matching numbers, ect. Can range anywhere from 400 to 2,000. Keep an eye out around your local gun stores or you can sometimes find good deals online like a forum or gunbroker.
@@MilsurpWorld Armslist is better than Gunbroker in many cases. Less price gougers there making you pay upwards of 1.5k for a completely pieced together K98, 600-700 for a run of the mill M91/30, and 700-800 on a plain old SMLE (more often than not without even a unit disc and known service history) or No. 4.
Hey, I have a K98 barreled receiver of a BYF 43, but on the very bottom of the barrel, just in front of the receiver there is an "x" mark. Could this be the RC symbol you think? Also there is a gothic style "f" under my serial number on the receiver, what is that code for? Thanks!
It sounds like the X is the Russian Capture X. The f is for the serial number of the rifle. The Germans numbered the rifles 1-9999, then 1a-9999a, then 1b-9999b, ect.
So the wood has been redone completely on these? And is it safe to say that a russian capture has most likely been used on another front during the Cold War?
If yours is a late-war issue, it will have a hole in the bottom of the cupped butt-plate. The Germans found that to be just as effective and a less expensive solution.
Yup. Especially since Canada has European influence when it comes to hunting calibers, Mauser is the way to go. A early war k98 is literally the best bolt action out there.
I should have mentioned that $1300-1400 is for the Russian refurb captures and even that has increased since then. To find one still in the original German service condition here, your looking at $2000-3000. The Yugoslav Mausers have dried up as well, and aside from the occasional Turkish, Israeli or South American models that turn up, there’s very little to be had here.
@@CT-Woods Agreed; but It was different here,, the country was awash in Enfield’s and .303 British ammo after both world wars. Most were chopped up and sporterized for hunting; drilled and tapped for scopes. A lot of guys here still use SMLEs for hunting, or sell them for under $250 Canadian.
If these rifles could only talk, RC's were all captured which means they were likely on the front at some time protecting some soldiers butt. Unless of course it belonged to the cook LOL. I have one k98 that is a twin to your , 39 Mauser 42 almost identical marking and waffenamps, but mine has the flat butt plate. The other k98 I have has no X numbers do not match, no grind on stock with serial numbers, no re-bluing, no signs of reworking. It is a Steyer BNZ 1943, the stock were the front strap goes through is worn down about 3/8 inch, this thing was carried long and far, I love these guns they were so well made. . Dont be to down on those "garbage rod" Mosins, a lot are poorly made because of rushing production, there were some poorly made Mauser toward the end of the war, when the shoe was on the other foot, but the Mauser is a much better design I do have a 39 Mosin, Izhevsk, that is unusual, It's all matching but the floor plate, butiful bluing, no machine marks, polished bolt, shiny bore, and shoots very well.
How much would a Russian Capture S/42g be worth today? Found one for $800, obviously all numbers mismatched but the bore looks brand new and the metal/wood looks amazing. No "X" or other markings done by Russians. Almost bought it today, but wasn't sure if $800 was a fair price. Trying to research and decide if I should go back tomorrow
Were there any numbers on the back left side of the stock? Being horizonal or vertical can tell you if it is Russian or Yugo capture. S/42G is a pretty rare and desirable year but I think 800 is a little high for a capture rifle. 500 or 600 is probably much closer to actual value.
Yes there were horizontal numbers and a blackened buttplate (cupped style plate too). The numbers on the stock didn't match the receiver serial number though. I still think the evidence points to it being a Russian capture, especially with the mismatched floor plate/bolt/safety. It is too bad because it was such a beautiful gun that I really wanted to pick it up, but didn't feel good about the price. Thank you for the help, I was thinking $600 or $700 is closer to the correct value
If only I could go back and buy the k98s I passed on because I thought they were too high. I have 3 Russian capture k98s I bought years ago paying about 50 too much each. Now they are worth triple what I paid. So I overpaid 50 each but gained about 500 each in appreciation so far. A great bore is a always a plus.
I have a k98k that exhibits all the signs of a Russian capture except for the crossed rifles on the receiver. And also the cupped butt plate has not been blued/blacked. Other than that all things you mentioned are in line with a Russian capture (peened, electro penciled, mismatched numbers). Do you think it's likely a Russian capture or did other countries do similar things to captured k98k's?
+North Florida Gun Guy I had to go dig in my safe because I wasn't sure. The numbers are horizontal. They're smaller than the numbers on your rifle but definitely horizontal. Thanks for clearing that up for me.
No problem. I think you're lucky to have one without the ugly Xs. It's interesting with RCs that they come in all kinds of variations of markings. I'm guessing one day in the future they will be collectible in among themselves.
+North Florida Gun Guy oh I hope they are collectible in and among themselves one day. Right now, just a fun shooter. Just watched your unboxing of the Yugoslav M48. Beautiful rifle and on my list of rifles to own. It's going to have to wait for me to get a 1903 Springfield though. It reminds me of my M24/47. Just caked in cosmoline. I'm really itching for a new surplus rifle. It's been a while. Last one was my 1891 argentine cavalry carbine. Peace
These rifles do have provenance: if you have a Russian-capture K98k, you know a German soldier carried it into combat and you know the Russians refurbished it - that is part of its indelible history.
Nice video! My Russian-capture has been a safe queen for the last 10 years, so I'm thinking about selling it. What do you suppose one of these is worth in excellent condition?
anything that was messed with on any original 98K captured or other wise drops it's value immensely there were millions of these weapons captured and or sold after the war and collectors who buy these now days want an all original pristine example , I had my 1941 appraised a couple of years ago it was graded a 8 to 9 valued at $325 to $400, if that helps you , The German bayonet was appraised at $280. it is like new however with frog.
I hope so , Lol, That's been a few years ago, it is a very nice weapon , I haven't wanted to sell it because I have other 8mm rifles I also have a FN 49 Egyptian mauser chambered in 8mm, it is also a very nice weapon ,runs great, I would grade it a 7 or 8 what would you value it at, ? I think a it's a 1953 Model, I have another 98 that has had the rear sight replaced with a Williams sight would you know anyone who could sweat on a rear sight the rifle is a 7 to 8 very nice all but that sight, thanks,
Im fairly certain the Russians took all the slings and cleaning rods and you have to buy your own. That was the case of the K98s from the business I bought mine from.
The story goes that the Russians took off the sight hoods, cleaning rods, and capture screws in order to legally declare the rifles demilitarized for arms treaties.
I have one. It is a bit rough but my plan that will crush the purists is to overhaul it to make a match rifle for "as issued" matches. The electro pencil marks will be removed, the stock replaced, the metal refinished to what it should have been. The barrel is actually in great shape so no change needed there.
how can you spot a fake? ive done so much research since i won it. i think i can spot if its been scrubbed. if not...i have a 3 day inspection period with my purchase to make sure im happy with it. it was restored by James River Armory. i wanted a beautiful K98k but also matching...
See how deep and clear the receiver markings are. If they appear shallow with good bluing on top then it's probably been refinished. If the number stampings appear inconsistent or crooked then it might be restamped. Look for any capture markings too like the numbers on the side of the stock, blued buttplate and takedown disc. These are all signs that it's been messed with.
Well it has nice bluing on it because it was "restored". all the numbers appear from the pictures to be pretty deep and straight. it appears that the stock was sanded and refinished also. again..."restored"....
Not all of them, Back in the day when they were being imported the gun store I shopped at would get 3 or 4 in at a time. I saw both counterbored and not counterbored. I bought 2 not counterbored for 250 each. I found a third one years later at a pawn shop not counterbored. Don't remember how much I paid but it was more than 250.
The Soviets shipped a lot of them to Guatemala together with hundreds of MG-34 and MG-42 to support the government of Jacobo Arbens, this shipment of arms propitiated the US support of General de armas who staged a coup rescuing the country from communism in 1954
"Russian Captures" began showing up in Spring of 1943. 🤣🤣. During WW2, captured Kar98s were absolutely issued to Soviet Troops on a pretty decent basis. Russian Snipers loved 'em. These rifles even remained in Federal Army Reserve and Provincial National Guard Units for the Soviet Military well into the 1960s, as did other German and Soviet WW2 Firearms like the PPSH41, PPS43, MP40, MP38, Mosin Nagant, SVT-40, Tokarev TT-33, and Walther P38.
does being a Russian capture raise or lower the value, I have an SS contract Rifle but it also has the Russian capture x and several other signs it was captured. When I bought it, they made no reference to it being a Russian Capture, but they sure did make a big deal about being an SS contract Rifle. I thought having two special things about this Rifle made it really interesting.
+nsfoker Being a Russian capture might be interesting but it does lower the value because they were refinished and have mixed up parts. And just because it is an RC doesn't mean it was captured in combat, the rifle could have been surrendered at the end of the war. I would advise extreme caution when looking at buying anything advertised as SS. There are a lot of fakes.
Russian Captures are worth more than Yugo Mausers because of their wartime history and German markings. Yugo captured K98ks go for a little less and then post war mad Yugo Mausers like the M48 go for even less.
Given the fact that the Germans had basically chased the Russians all the way back to Stalingrad and would have slaughtered the Russians if it hadn't been for the 2-front war Germany had to fight alongside another army that was helping but also made things more difficult in some ways.
Towards the end of the war the Germans were fighting in the north in Finland, east in Russian/Ukraine, south in Italy, and West in France. In both world wars the Germans picked rather poor allies.
I have one but looking at it it doesn't looks like a russian capture but neither from a german ( even if it has one german marking on the side and is dated 1918 ) ... I think it's coming from Mars
"Erfurt 1916" But the gun is weird looking compared to others , i'll try to post link to some photos here but i'm not sure your comment section allows links :)
I have a early Austria Mauser converted to nato I have the dates on the gun when it was rebarreled I had a fee more question for you if you get a chance.
I predict in 25-35 years from now...most of the (fully refurbished) "destroyed" K98s will be the only German K98 Rifles that people still take out to the range and enjoy...while the forum K98 purist Nazis will be debating on how a "real" K98 is devalued each and every time it's taken out to the range. I now know that my Mitchel's Mausers were all refurbished which makes them non-collector style (bolt is white which is incorrect for instance. I did not know this at the time I bought it; maybe I wouldn't have bought 2 of them when I did. I was in Iraq on a deployment in 2007 when I purchased them over the phone! However, I don't believe like 1/16" - 1/32" of steel was grinded of metal just to re-stamp matching serial numbers off of their Russian Capture Rifles. I've seen no real evidence of that so far other internet hate. When I bought their rifles they had several grades of weapons to pick from which was partly based upon matching numbers or not. At a minimum, my receivers are real WW2 byf mausers that no one, not even the purist will argue with. If my children have children, than my future grandkids will get the opportunity to inherit and live fire shoot a real German Mauser in the future.
They had over 80% of the captured MP38s, MP40s, and Walther P38s as well. The Soviet Military even kept them in service for their Federal Army Reserve and Provincial National Guard Units into the late 1960s. MP40s were commonly issued out to Field Clinic Medics, Cooks, Clerks, Truck Drivers, and Tank Operators.
If They are selling for $800, they are not worth it because that’s the ceiling they are ever going to sell for. I rather buy a Yugo M-48 or a Spanish Mauser.
1000$+ now. Your comment didn’t age too well. Milsurp is ceilingless as newer generations are getting more and more into them with more and more “war” video games. I wouldn’t doubt 2-3k Russian captures in 5 years
Overprized, pitted, rusted, surplus rifles that can blow-up. For the price for one that i priced ($900-$1200) I can buy a beautiful, used, Weatherby MarkV and dont have to worry about it blowing-up in my face...
Thanks for this video. I just picked one up for $600. I assumed it was a RC , but your video confirms it. Mine is 1938 S/243. Works great.
That's completely wild. I just picked up a Kar98k a few weeks ago at a gun show here in Ohio. It's also a 1938 243 marked. It seems to be a Russian Capture as well. What serial numbers is yours stamped with?
I Love My Russian Capture, Kar98K. It's like a sleeper, with it's red shiny stock, it's black parkerizing, it's electro-penciled bolt... underneath all of that it has a shiny bore, and headspaces correctly, and locks up tight. It shoots great! I've shot it out to 800 yards, using the sight adjustment and it was right on target when using 198gr full power ammo, (PRVI). Also, mine came with a Kar98 AZ bolt rather than a regular old Kar98K bolt. Mine is 1940, marked 243. It was thought to be crap because nobody knew why someone would electro-pencil the bolt, and treat a Mauser so ridiculously, putting black stuff all over it... Not very many people know about Russian Captures. By the way my original German serial number is, "4640" if any of your guys have that bolt, I'll trade you my bolt body for your bolt body. Same thing with Trigger Guard and other parts. If you have Russian capture with original German (receiver and barrel) serial number 7827 I have your trigger guard, and 2667, I have your safety selector... We should all list the various serial numbers and put all of our original rifle back together again.
Did the extractor have a serial number? My K-98 is a war trophy my dad sent back during the campaign in Italy. All other part numbers match. Had a collector make a big deal about the lack of a number on the extractor. Doesn't matter, not selling my dad's souvenir from the war.
Do not take this wrong way...just stating what I see regularly in the Army HQ building that I work in...they have in a display case an original K98 donated by the Army's official historian directorate. The serial numbers in the bolt carrier group on that one are not pencil marked...they are machine stamped deep into the metal. There are pencil marked serial numbers in other places of the rifle. I wonder if it was simply different from one manufacturer to another for how the serial numbers were applied.
Somebody should create a "miss matched/force matched parts looking for their family" webside...
Russia sure didn't have collectors in mind back then. It's still a Mauser 98!
A lot of collectors like to bash people for buying Russian captured k98s, but they are really nice rifles. Some people are under the misconception that these are 100% mixed up part rifles, but they are not. The barrel, receiver, and sight bases are all matching. Even though the other parts are not matching, they are still authentic german manufactured parts from WW2. When these first arrived on the surplus market, they had very little collector value. Now that the surplus has dried up, collectors are now starting to recognize the true value behind them. The history behind them is really cool too. They were used on some of the most brutal battlefields of the eastern front.
I think RCs make an interesting type of rifle to collect all on their own. They come in a variety of markings and conditions and a collector could have quite the assortment for much cheaper than any other German Mauser.
North Florida Gun Guy i totally agree, RC k98s are definitely interesting rifles to collect, and for affordable prices too. Well at least they used to be affordable, some pull around $900 on GunBroker. I have two RC k98s and I love them both.
I have two German 98ks, plus an Israeli 7.62 conversion. One is a Russian capture, the other has all matching numbers except the bolt. If I could only have one rifle, it would be a German 98k, Russian capture or not.
It's interesting to see someone on the internet say that people are "under the misconception that these are 100" mixed up part rifles," yet people are quite to say somehow the matching parts on Mitchel's Mausers (MM) (which are all RC) somehow are all "Forced Matched" or all of the metal grinded down so they could re-stamp "forgery" serial numbers. I know that MM aren't necessarily a good collector K98 (because of how they refurbished them), but I've yet to see real evidence that their RC capture matching numbers are fake, but "ALL" other RC are real.
Russian capture k98s don't always have matching barrel and receivers. I have 3 and the barrels don't match the receivers on mine. They have the electro penciled bolts and the x stamped on the receiver. Whether the barrels were changed by the Germans before capture or by the Russians after capture I don't know.
I found one at cabelas yesterday for 500$ . Couldn't say no.
lol you were ripped off
@@ja5335 look up the prices now a days you are wrong
@@ja5335 lmao shut up dumbass. they are 1k + now
@@ja5335 that’s definitely false
@@DelGTAGrndrs They go for that in Europe, You can buy a German Mauser with 3 Reich markings ad matching numbers for less than $1000 in Europe. Russian captures or Yugo models are half of that.
I've got a Yugo capture K98k still got quite a few waffenamts and a deaths head on the back of the bolt handle
Just got one from my local gun shop how does your rifle shoot?
@@jeremyorr7469 great
I’ve seen a Turk Mauser with a few attempted waffen marks on it. Some idiot tried to put ss runes on the butt stock to “up the valueL
Have you ever seen a Yugo K98 so early capture where they scrubbed off the German marking but they never put the Yugo crest on it?
I bought one today. 1937 S/27 (Erfurt) It's in nice condition, has 2 Xs on the receiver, but no electro-pencil that I can see.
I have both a Russian capture k98 and a Yugo refurbished k98 (not the m48) the Russian is a 1937 Sauer & Sohn and the Yugo once I got the wood off was able to decide it was a 1943 Mauser manufactured ,the Russian is quite worn with maybe 30% blue and okay bore with all matching numbers (even the bolt) and the Yugo is in perfect shape with a miss matched bolt but everything else matches…I think I payed around $179 each back in the late 90’s early 2000’s ….those days are far gone but I feel fortunate to have been able purchase them when I did …great video got me thinking about the fun days of old …
I have an SWP45 RC K98. Came with the cleaning rod too. I bought an original K98 period German used sling for it. Cleaned off the Russian shellac. Added back original capture screws under trigger guard. Bought an original period K98 sight hood, I have yet to place on the sight. Has the purple toned extractor on the bolt. I am the first owner of this rifle after the gun dealer who purchased a bunch directly from importer in late 1990's. p.s. Paid only $179.99 for it back then.
You got beat !!!!
ਬੁਹਤ ਵਧੀਆ ਲਗਦੀਆਂ ਨੇ ਵੀਰੇ ਤੇਰੀਆਂ ਸਾਰੀਆਂ ਮਾਉਜ਼ਰ 7.92 ਦੀਆਂ ਵੀਡੀਓ ਅਤੇ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀ ਧੰਨਵਾਦ ਜੀ।
One thing I tell people, I WOULD ALWAYS prefer a Russian Capture to any other variants because
1.) it is automatic proof it saw SOMETHING whether it was combat or it simply touched both a German and a Soviet Soldier 2.) It is automatic proof it is original from WW2 3.) It belonged to 2 empires that no longer exist today (Nazi Germany and USSR), which I believe in a future may be worth more than other K98S. 4.) It is automatic proof it served in a specific theater, Eastern Front. Lastly, 5.) The barrel and receiver are the same, untouched, meaning the original barrel and receiver from which the German soldier loaded and fired the round is still in the RC K98.
starwarsraul13 or you are just cheap and don’t want to put that money out for a nice vet bring back
It is NOT proof it served anywhere, Eastern Front or otherwise. They were snatched up wherever the were found, whether that was when dropped in Stalingrad or found in a warehouse post-war. I love mine but there's no way they will ever be worth more than a "correct" model, which is all-matching and has all the correct period parts on it.
Yeah....For the most part, you’re correct. Interesting perspective🇺🇸
I've had a Yugo capture K98k since about 2000. It's in excellent condition. Purchased it for about $150 from an individual at a gun show.
Thanks for this and your other informative videos. I just picked up a 98 just like the one in the vid (same marking & date). The prior owner drilled and tapped with a Leupold base and rings w/o a stock (broken). I think the Leupold and gunsmithing costs more than the Mauser. Hah! It will make a good target/hunting piece.
I enjoyed your post. My K98K is almost identical to this one with 2 exceptions. On mine the buttplate and bolt disassembly ring are in the white. The stock has been coated in shellac. The receiver and barrel have no swastikas and the receiver has been stamped with a Yugoslavia symbol. It's a very accurate rifle.
Great Video, I have always been fascinated by the Russian Capture K98. Lots of additional history with them. Great Video
With all the different variations of Russian Captures and relatively low prices they make good rifles to collect.
I own a few Mausers but the K98K is one of my favorites because the work better than my 1891/30 Mosins...
Yeah, there is a reason the 91/30 is nicknamed the garbage rod.
North Florida Gun Guy Yes indeed!!
Funny you mentioned the Mosin. Back in the day a guy bought one and it didn't shoot worth a crap. He wrote a letter to shotgun news asking what he could do to make it more accurate. They replied, "Get rid of it and buy a better gun."
I have one of these, rechambered post war to accomodate the US 30.06 round, with slight modification done to the receiver ring to fit the longer round, thicker front post, U-notch instead of V-notch rear sight and a set of new serial number and service branch insignia. (Norwegian post war issue) It's a great gun. A lot more accurate than I'll ever be, strong action, reliable feeding, and just feels great to handle. Got it for like 80 bucks, and after a tiny bit of love and cleaning, it's as new. Never getting another bolt-action, as this will serve my hunting-purposes just fine.
My K98K is a byf '41. It has been blackened. No matching numbers. No electro penceling, no X's, no numbers on the butt stock. All of the swastika's are still intact. No paint on the stock as far as I can judge... I found the gun in The Netherlands. The gun has no backstory. What do you think?
Sounds like a Russian capture.
Post pics of it on gunboards forum, those guys will tell you exactly what you have.
Michiel v L where you just walking by and you found it? Or did you find it in a gun store?
Found a "bnz 41" RC in my local pawn shop yesterday for $400 and immediately put my card on the counter!
It's like yours in that the stock has no shellac of any kind on it, though it retains its original blueing (no black finish with the exception of the butt plate), matching rear and front sights, still has the cleaning rod and retaining screws, the stock is not force matched, the takedown disc is still in the white, swastikas are unpeened, and there is zero electro-penciling to speak of. I know it's RC though because of the crossed swords "X" mark on the receiver.
Nice video! I added a Russian capture to my safe not long ago. The rifle was in a synthetic Boyd sporter stock. I found a complete Russian capture stock with all furniture except cleaning rod on eBay, and put the barreled action in the wooden stock. The mismatched number on the stock is the only real give-away that the rifle isn't as left by a Russian armorer. It's a shame that they couldn't spare the time to keep matching parts together, but I suspect that the interests of future American collectors weren't their foremost concern at the time, lol! Mine has the swastikas peened out.
Wonderful video. There is a lot I don't know. I'd never heard of Soviet Captured K98 in the USA. Thank you!
They were imported just like the other milsurps.
I just purchased a k98 that the stock has been "sporterized". The 3 numbers on the bolt assembly match. There's no electric pencil etchings anywhere on the gun. The gun is a 1939 with a 42 stamp. The only crazy marks ive found are under the rear flip up sight. Looks like a couple numbers were crossed out. I think it was a Russian capture, but for whatever reason they didn't dissemble it. But I'm replacing the butchered stock and want to make sure the later stocks fit on my 1939 barrel/bolt trigger guard assembly? I only paid 400 bucks for the gun, so I'm buying all orginal era parts. Sub'ed to your channel. I enjoy your vids, keep them coming.
Another indicator of a Russian capture is the lack of a cleaning rod and the two locking screws on the bottom of the receiver
I have a Yugo captured K98... Do you know where I can find info on those?
The finish on mine is crap is there a way to smooth the finish with out messing it up?
I recently acquired a Mauthausen production K98 which does not appear to be a russian capture, It is all numbers matching, does not have the peened markings or the "X" etc and the buttplate is almost shiny metal as is the bolt takedown disc. The stock itself is a very light coloration of wood. Considering sigthing it in Saturday if the weather holds. Its a smooth action and is scoped.
Hey Milsurp World! Great video. May I suggest you do a video on how to tell if your WW2 German Mauser is NOT a Russian capture (RC). As best you can. I bought a beauty BCD 1942 on Gun Broker for $1,100 in spring 2018. It's all matching. But I did find a "Germany" in very fine print on the receiver near the stock. Having Grandparents born in Germany I know that Germans do not call "Germany" Germany. Lol. I love the rifle anyway! But I would imagine that most collectors actually end up buying a RC while thinking they're buying an authentic all matching K98 German WW2 Mauser/US Vet bring back. Your insight would be interesting to both new and experienced collectors. Love your stuff. Thanks. New York, USA 2019
Mine is a 1943 AR RC but has a unfinished butt pad
Excellent info you expounded!!
I have one that has the original finish, most of the bluing, all the symbols are punched out but the byf in the 4, and most of the numbers are matching but the Box plate. do you have any thoughts about it
Great video and solid information. Could you explain, in a little more detail, the note about your stock being red? Mine stock is the same way, but its an all original bcd4. Thanks!
The Germans made laminate stocks using red and white glue, red being most common and robust. Is that what you mean?
Yeah you mean they laminated the wood red?
Or the red is residual inside the grain?
If it's a Russian capture it was slathered with the same red shellac finish used on mosins.
Also my RC has a capitol and lowercase G stamped on the left side of the receiver and there are 7 symbols that look kinda like triplanes that have “WaA623” stamped underneath, what do these mean?
The "triplanes" and WaA623 is called a Waffenamp. Its actually an eagle. Waffenamps are inspector marks for when a part of the rifle passes inspection.
I just bought a Russian capture the other day due to the rarity of them where I'm at. And I'm honestly impressed with the rework the Russians did. It still runs smoothly but are ever any Russian captures the the round front sight still attached instead of just the sight itself?
I am not sure they blued over all the rust. Maybe mild surface rust, but deep pitting I think they probably grit blasted or chemically treated prior to finishing them, otherwise some of the rust would probably come through. I could be wrong, and maybe their bluing process was adequate to reverse even bad rust since bluing is a form of controlled corrosion itself.
I just figure if they were going through all that trouble, they would have treated the metal prior to finishing them.
Sweet rifle, don't let anyone ever tell you that a RC K98 isn't a respectable collectible. They will never be worth as much as all correct rifles, but value has steadily increased and they are worth more than a lot of other surplus Mausers because you can't deny their origin.
Have a K98 that of everything you listed, only has the blackened numbers on the sight and an electro-penciled bolt. Everything but my bolt are matching numbers. So I'm not sure what it would be or what company would have marked it like it has been.
I have a Russian capture with no x's, all the black, the symbols and Eagles are gone, original finish i think, but all the numbers are matching but the box plate. any thoughts or ideas?
My barrel doesn't have a serial number, but it has the waffenamt. Why is this? Anyone know?
I recently picked up a German K98 made in 1941 and it was a Russian capture but the only markings it has is two cross markings otherwise it has the numbers and swastika with eagle. It’s a pleasure to shoot and for what I paid for it I don’t regret it.
0:33 Some of them in this picture will be sent to North Korea, China, and Vietnam.
In the 70's these sold for $16 at Oshman's. They had barrels full of them.
You buy any?
Just checked mine butt plate in the white well worn blueing bolt receiver and floor plate all matching numbers. except for some nimrod sanding and shiny stuff the stock i think i have a G.I. bring back.
Mine has all matching action except the firing pin and stock. The butt plate is right, so is the barrell. The fingerguard and magazine are also not matching. Anyway, the reason im sayin this is that most russian captures have the main most important parts matching. Even vet bring backs are sometimes mosmatched due to parts wearing out etc.
I like your video. Don't like guns that much, but I had a brand new one that was never shot. I did use it many times and enjoyed fitting it. Sorry I departed with it and now looking to buy one but want a mint condition.
Thanks for watching. I have a better version of the video out. And if you want to know I have a couple videos on Mauser evolution.
the laminated stock I belive was adopted 1942 onwards, and hooded sites. I brought a 1938 Mauser had a 9 out of 10 barrel but the previous owner had messed with the but and installed a laminated but plate why I'll never know. to be honest nice rifle good to work with but still preferred the 303 for accuracy. just my opinion.
8mm is more accurate and more capable of reaching further than 303. It also has the benefit of not getting rim-lock. I do like shooting 303 though as it is a slightly softer shooting round.
+North Florida Gun Guy, Both rifles are classic and great fun to shoot still like the 303 more lol but also really like the P14/17.
to think about it I like them all but would love to fire a Springfield still haven't had that chance yet. great channel buy the way thanks for your reply to my first comment.
I like the 10 rd detachable clip on the Enfield.
*magazine, not clip
hello, hopefully you can help me. i just bought a k98 and i see no x's or any peening on it. all numbers are matching. however, the sight is blued/black as is the bolt tool hole in the stock. it is marked "dou" and 44 on top. I'm trying to figure out if it's worth collecting and keeping or turning it into a shooter. thanks!
If the numbers are all matching it's definitely a collector, the blacked out rear sight and disassembled disc is weird though. Anything else off about it?
@@MilsurpWorld not that i know of. This is my first one so im kind of diving in head first. Its missing a cleaning rod. Not sure if that is important. Its got a protective type grease all over it that needs entire disassembly to clean off. Like someone tried to keep it from rusting all these years. Anything you can think of to have me check?
I would say look for any markings that aren't German around the reciever/barrel assembly. Check the stock for any cartouches under the wrist and on the side.
I have a question, I recently bought a rifle at a military vehicle show it is marked dou 42. I assume that is 1942 right? I can’t find any numbers on the stock, but it has a flat steel buttplate with a matching number. All the numbers I can find match except the bolt assembly(it’s not a bent bolt). There’s no possible way this could be a Russian capture right? Did the Germans number the stocks? If so where?
That stock doesn't line up with what they came with in 1942. Is likely a replacement stock.
Great information. Thank you. So if the serial number is stamped long ways on the stock as shown on yours it is definitely a Russian capture? Do you know what a large 6 pointed symbol kind of like a star or extended asterisk on the receiver means?
makes me wonder, why be so sloppy with the bolts? did they check or change headspace on each mismatched rifle?
Who knows, but German Mausers were pretty well machined enough that non matching bolts will work fine in them.
It’ll be nice if you could do a yugo M98 or yugo captured K98k Mauser! Yes I understand it’s not as interesting as a Russian captured k98. Thanks
Some of the Yugos are Russian K98k rifles refurbished.
I have a dot 43 K98 with no RC or import markings, but numerous mismatched parts that still have their waffenamts. What could this one be?
Would need to know other factors first. Is the stock or any parts refinished? Are there any numbers on the left side if the buttstock close to the takedown disc? Are swastikas in the waffenamps peened?
Negative, appears to be original finish (glossy bluing) Swastikas are still present in Waffenamts though all the visible ones are rather small. Waffenamt stamp on stock is still visible. No additional numbers or crest present besides the original script. Laminate stock and S/42 sights.
@@echodelta2172 Sounds like a mystery mismatch. Could be a build or project rifle, could be a rifle that somebody mixed up a bunch of parts on. Could be a post war used rifle and matching numbers didnt matter to whoever had it. It's hard to know.
Nice video man. I've got a k98 that, from my research, appears to be a non Russian capture rifle. It has 3 non matching parts (front barrel band, magazine plate, and the part above the trigger guard) , intact nazi marks, and no shellac or other finish on the wood and stock parts. There are no "X" marks on the gun, and no electro penciling. Really the only thing that might make it a Russian capture are those 3 missing parts. Aside from that, everything else looks to be original German. I'm no expert, but really like the gun. What do you think?
Hi,
I have question- i recently bought a kar98k mauser, but i have problems identifying it- it is refinished, mostly non-matching numbers the receiver is marked BNZ-43, mod98, but all of waffenamts had been crudely grounded off, and eagle on receiver had beaten out swastika and wings, the bolt also have no nazi markings except numbers which seems to be re-numbered- numbers on small parts are grounded off and bolt is refinished and has plum tone finish like on soviet SVT-40 rifle bolt. The stock have no bolt take down ring- it is not VZ-24 stock- there are no groves for better grip, and it has been covered with some red tone colour, and it is numbered in area arround grip. The barrel seems to be non-matching- and has some crude markings like russian "G" letter and number 3.
If the eagles and swastikas are ground off its probably a captured rifle. The Russians and the Yugos renumbered parts with an electro pencil. If there are numbers on the side of the buttstock like in this video then its Russian but if the numbers are vertical then its a Yugo. The plum extractor color is normal and is that way on most rifles. The stock without the takedown hole could be a late war stock if it has a hole in the cupped buttplate for the takedown. Really I would need to see some pictures to better identify, too many questions I have that could be answered with a couple pictures.
North Florida Gun Guy Allright, thanks for answer. It is kinda strange mix-match rifle- but it was the best option out there- in our country. Nothing to chose from. I could make a picture slideshow later.
Send me the link when you upload them. BNZ is one of the more desirable makers. Sounds like you have a nice shooter. Where are you from?
Hi, sorry for late response. I am from other side of Atlantic ocean, Baltic states- which explains the limited choice in surplus firearms since there are strictly regulated laws, and demand is sort of unexistant.
The Mauser 98 service rifle is beautiful and has a strong front locking action that can be readily rechambered for a wide range of rimless hunting rounds like the 9.3x62mm big game round, but was a second-rate service rifle. The simpler and more robust Mosin-Nagant (pronounced ‘Mo-seen Na-gon’) - which was affectionately called the “Mosinka” by Russian soldiers - is a much better service rifle thanks in large part to its quick release magazine floorplate that allows quick and easy cleaning if dust, sand, dirt or mud gets into the action without the use of tools.
Even better is the Lee-Enfield service rifle which had a rear locking action that was far easier to clean if dust, sand, dirt or mud got into the locking lug recesses, and uses easily cleaned quick detachable 10 round magazine (double the capacity of the 98 and Mosinka which use non-detachable magazines). You can also single load a round directly into the chamber of the Mosinka and Lee-Enfield if something went wrong with the magazine without a problem, but try doing so with the 98 and you will likely break the extractor. The best Mauser type rifle is the contemporary CRF Winchester Model 70 which has a quick release magazine floorplate, a coned breech, an easy to use 3-positon side-swing safety that facilitates the use of a low mounted telescopic sight, and a bevelled extractor that allows you to single load a round directly into the chamber without breaking the extractor.
That said, if I had to grab one of these rifles for use in any conditions I'd grab a Lee-Enfield (No. 5 “Jungle Carbine”), but would favor a Mosinka (M38 Carbine) if I wanted the most rugged rifle; though the M70 is arguably better for use against dangerous game thanks to its CRF action (better feed reliability) and a much easier to use safety than those used by the 98 and the Mosinka (if not the Lee-Enfield which has an excellent safety). If debris gets into the front locking lugs recesses of the 98, Mosinka or M70 you will want a toothbrush and a water canteen to clean it out. Lee-Enfield rifles in good condition are no longer readily available but Mosinkas are. The Molot KO-91/30 M hunting rifle is essentially a refurbished Mosin-Nagant M91/30 service rifle with a shorter barrel, a turned down bolt handle to facilitate the use of telescopic sights, and a quick detach AK type side mount.
Richard have to agree with you completely. I own examples of each, including a #5 "Jungle Carbine". I love the k98 for it's strength and precision, The Mosin just feels the best to me, and the Enfield shoots fast and has ten rounds.
If I had to bug out with one of these antiques it would be the Enfield just for the capacity, the rapid fire, and it's strong enough for the cartridge it shoots.
I have a Mosin M38 Carbine (made in 1941) which is markedly lighter and hander than the K98k if a little heavier than the No. 5. The latter feels less sturdy than the M38 due to its greater bulk and reduced weight, like comparing a small steel frame revolver with a slightly lighter medium frame revolver with an aluminium frame. The No. 5 makes more sense from a practical perspective, but I like the M38 more due to its simplicity, strength, ruggedness and 'feel'. I also love their history as they were commonly used by partisans like Sarah Ginaite (there is a great photo of her on the Web with an M38).
Yet the Russian rifles worked in extreme cold and were not prone to magazine jams thanks in large part to the ease with which their magazines could be cleaned, which helps explain why the Russians defeated the German invaders. The Mosin-Nagant is also an inherently more rugged design than the Mauser, much as Russian tanks like the T-34/85 were more rugged than German tanks like the Tiger and Panther which were prone to breaking down even in good conditions.
Well gentleman, I will have to agree to disagree, the lee Enfield was a great weapon it was inherently dependable, but it did have some delicate parts on it , one being the rear sight, However the Mosin I can't even put in the same room as the other two weapons it was a s crude as come, it worked thats all I can say about the rifle I owned a American one made By White Westinghouse and it was the only one I ever felt like wouldn't just fall apart anytime, ! , the German 98 was a work of art beautifully well built the entire gun screamed quality, I own 2 a 1941 and a 1917 Gew 98 in a 318 bore, I would have to say if I had to run out the door with one of the 3, I would have to choose the 98K
Someone doesn't know how to open a mauser floor plate..
I have a Russian capture with no x's, all the black, the swastikas and Eagles are gone, original finish i think, but all the numbers are matching but the box plate. any thoughts or ideas?
I think it's a capture rifle by another country. I think a lot of the Balkan countries did similar things to K98ks after the war. It might be Romanian captured, it's hard to always tell on those.
How much do good quality Mauser 98ks/ K98ks go for and where could i get one?
Price depends on condition, year of manufacture, what factory made it, matching numbers, ect. Can range anywhere from 400 to 2,000. Keep an eye out around your local gun stores or you can sometimes find good deals online like a forum or gunbroker.
@@MilsurpWorld Armslist is better than Gunbroker in many cases. Less price gougers there making you pay upwards of 1.5k for a completely pieced together K98, 600-700 for a run of the mill M91/30, and 700-800 on a plain old SMLE (more often than not without even a unit disc and known service history) or No. 4.
Hey, I have a K98 barreled receiver of a BYF 43, but on the very bottom of the barrel, just in front of the receiver there is an "x" mark. Could this be the RC symbol you think? Also there is a gothic style "f" under my serial number on the receiver, what is that code for? Thanks!
It sounds like the X is the Russian Capture X. The f is for the serial number of the rifle. The Germans numbered the rifles 1-9999, then 1a-9999a, then 1b-9999b, ect.
So the wood has been redone completely on these? And is it safe to say that a russian capture has most likely been used on another front during the Cold War?
Good video!
Thanks
So i see you have that bolt disassembly hole on your butt stock! I was wondering why doesnt my 98k rifle have one?
ua-cam.com/video/TsyrlTqkqJc/v-deo.html
Yours sounds like a late war variant
If yours is a late-war issue, it will have a hole in the bottom of the cupped butt-plate. The Germans found that to be just as effective and a less expensive solution.
These are going for $1300-$1400 in Canada now.
Yup. Especially since Canada has European influence when it comes to hunting calibers, Mauser is the way to go. A early war k98 is literally the best bolt action out there.
I should have mentioned that $1300-1400 is for the Russian refurb captures and even that has increased since then. To find one still in the original German service condition here, your looking at $2000-3000. The Yugoslav Mausers have dried up as well, and aside from the occasional
Turkish, Israeli or South American models that turn up, there’s very little to be had here.
@@CT-Woods Agreed; but It was different here,, the country was awash in Enfield’s and .303 British ammo after both world wars. Most were chopped up and sporterized for hunting; drilled and tapped for scopes. A lot of guys here still use SMLEs for hunting, or sell them for under $250 Canadian.
If these rifles could only talk, RC's were all captured which means they were likely on the front at some time protecting some soldiers butt. Unless of course it belonged to the cook LOL. I have one k98 that is a twin to your , 39 Mauser 42 almost identical marking and waffenamps, but mine has the flat butt plate.
The other k98 I have has no X numbers do not match, no grind on stock with serial numbers, no re-bluing, no signs of reworking. It is a Steyer BNZ 1943, the stock were the front strap goes through is worn down about 3/8 inch, this thing was carried long and far, I love these guns they were so well made. .
Dont be to down on those "garbage rod" Mosins, a lot are poorly made because of rushing production, there were some poorly made Mauser toward the end of the war, when the shoe was on the other foot, but the Mauser is a much better design I do have a 39 Mosin, Izhevsk, that is unusual, It's all matching but the floor plate, butiful bluing, no machine marks, polished bolt, shiny bore, and shoots very well.
Is it used nowadays
What about the curdlly stamped X on bolt?
Probably means the same as the X on the receiver.
great info
Hitler would be f---ing furious at the sound of the word capture.
How much would a Russian Capture S/42g be worth today? Found one for $800, obviously all numbers mismatched but the bore looks brand new and the metal/wood looks amazing. No "X" or other markings done by Russians. Almost bought it today, but wasn't sure if $800 was a fair price. Trying to research and decide if I should go back tomorrow
Were there any numbers on the back left side of the stock? Being horizonal or vertical can tell you if it is Russian or Yugo capture. S/42G is a pretty rare and desirable year but I think 800 is a little high for a capture rifle. 500 or 600 is probably much closer to actual value.
Yes there were horizontal numbers and a blackened buttplate (cupped style plate too). The numbers on the stock didn't match the receiver serial number though. I still think the evidence points to it being a Russian capture, especially with the mismatched floor plate/bolt/safety. It is too bad because it was such a beautiful gun that I really wanted to pick it up, but didn't feel good about the price. Thank you for the help, I was thinking $600 or $700 is closer to the correct value
If only I could go back and buy the k98s I passed on because I thought they were too high. I have 3 Russian capture k98s I bought years ago paying about 50 too much each. Now they are worth triple what I paid. So I overpaid 50 each but gained about 500 each in appreciation so far. A great bore is a always a plus.
I have a k98k that exhibits all the signs of a Russian capture except for the crossed rifles on the receiver. And also the cupped butt plate has not been blued/blacked. Other than that all things you mentioned are in line with a Russian capture (peened, electro penciled, mismatched numbers). Do you think it's likely a Russian capture or did other countries do similar things to captured k98k's?
Does it have numbers on the buttstock? If so and they're horizontal it's a Russian capture. If they are vertical then it's probably a Yugo capture.
+North Florida Gun Guy I had to go dig in my safe because I wasn't sure. The numbers are horizontal. They're smaller than the numbers on your rifle but definitely horizontal. Thanks for clearing that up for me.
No problem. I think you're lucky to have one without the ugly Xs. It's interesting with RCs that they come in all kinds of variations of markings. I'm guessing one day in the future they will be collectible in among themselves.
+North Florida Gun Guy oh I hope they are collectible in and among themselves one day. Right now, just a fun shooter. Just watched your unboxing of the Yugoslav M48. Beautiful rifle and on my list of rifles to own. It's going to have to wait for me to get a 1903 Springfield though. It reminds me of my M24/47. Just caked in cosmoline. I'm really itching for a new surplus rifle. It's been a while. Last one was my 1891 argentine cavalry carbine. Peace
These rifles do have provenance: if you have a Russian-capture K98k, you know a German soldier carried it into combat and you know the Russians refurbished it - that is part of its indelible history.
Nice video! My Russian-capture has been a safe queen for the last 10 years, so I'm thinking about selling it. What do you suppose one of these is worth in excellent condition?
500 to 600 depending on the make and year.
anything that was messed with on any original 98K captured or other wise drops it's value immensely there were millions of these weapons captured and or sold after the war and collectors who buy these now days want an all original pristine example , I had my 1941 appraised a couple of years ago it was graded a 8 to 9 valued at $325 to $400, if that helps you , The German bayonet was appraised at $280. it is like new however with frog.
I feel like your K98k might have been undervalued.
I hope so , Lol, That's been a few years ago, it is a very nice weapon , I haven't wanted to sell it because I have other 8mm rifles I also have a FN 49 Egyptian mauser chambered in 8mm, it is also a very nice weapon ,runs great, I would grade it a 7 or 8 what would you value it at, ? I think a it's a 1953 Model, I have another 98 that has had the rear sight replaced with a Williams sight would you know anyone who could sweat on a rear sight the rifle is a 7 to 8 very nice all but that sight, thanks,
Egyptian FN49s are going anywhere from 600 to 800 depending on how fast you want to sell it.
Im fairly certain the Russians took all the slings and cleaning rods and you have to buy your own. That was the case of the K98s from the business I bought mine from.
The story goes that the Russians took off the sight hoods, cleaning rods, and capture screws in order to legally declare the rifles demilitarized for arms treaties.
I have one. It is a bit rough but my plan that will crush the purists is to overhaul it to make a match rifle for "as issued" matches. The electro pencil marks will be removed, the stock replaced, the metal refinished to what it should have been. The barrel is actually in great shape so no change needed there.
I like knowing the Russians captured my 98. I like it more then another 98 I have that was a bring back.
Since you don't want the bring back K98k I'll take it...
i just bought a restored matching byf 43 k98k off gunbroker for $1500 worried that i may have bought a fake matcher.
Tacticool Brandon Oh goodness, I don't want to be the bearer of bad news...
how can you spot a fake? ive done so much research since i won it. i think i can spot if its been scrubbed. if not...i have a 3 day inspection period with my purchase to make sure im happy with it. it was restored by James River Armory. i wanted a beautiful K98k but also matching...
See how deep and clear the receiver markings are. If they appear shallow with good bluing on top then it's probably been refinished. If the number stampings appear inconsistent or crooked then it might be restamped. Look for any capture markings too like the numbers on the side of the stock, blued buttplate and takedown disc. These are all signs that it's been messed with.
Well it has nice bluing on it because it was "restored". all the numbers appear from the pictures to be pretty deep and straight. it appears that the stock was sanded and refinished also. again..."restored"....
Tacticool Brandon I dont think restored K98ks are worth that much. If I was you I would return it and look for another one.
What calibres do the russian captures come in? 30-06?
Russian captures are in 8mm. The Norwegians rechambered theirs to 30-06.
Interesting thanks mate
One could make a nice collection just out of captured K98ks. Lots of countries used them after the war.
Good video thanks
🤚🏼Soon 💋🤝💋🌹🌹🌹 yes🌹🌹🤝🌹🤚🏼
They are also counterbored.
Not all of them, Back in the day when they were being imported the gun store I shopped at would get 3 or 4 in at a time. I saw both counterbored and not counterbored. I bought 2 not counterbored for 250 each. I found a third one years later at a pawn shop not counterbored. Don't remember how much I paid but it was more than 250.
The Soviets shipped a lot of them to Guatemala together with hundreds of MG-34 and MG-42 to support the government of Jacobo Arbens, this shipment of arms propitiated the US support of General de armas who staged a coup rescuing the country from communism in 1954
Interesting
"Russian Captures" began showing up in Spring of 1943. 🤣🤣. During WW2, captured Kar98s were absolutely issued to Soviet Troops on a pretty decent basis. Russian Snipers loved 'em.
These rifles even remained in Federal Army Reserve and Provincial National Guard Units for the Soviet Military well into the 1960s, as did other German and Soviet WW2 Firearms like the PPSH41, PPS43, MP40, MP38, Mosin Nagant, SVT-40, Tokarev TT-33, and Walther P38.
Nice
How much is worth now dude?
does being a Russian capture raise or lower the value, I have an SS contract Rifle but it also has the Russian capture x and several other signs it was captured. When I bought it, they made no reference to it being a Russian Capture, but they sure did make a big deal about being an SS contract Rifle. I thought having two special things about this Rifle made it really interesting.
+nsfoker Being a Russian capture might be interesting but it does lower the value because they were refinished and have mixed up parts. And just because it is an RC doesn't mean it was captured in combat, the rifle could have been surrendered at the end of the war.
I would advise extreme caution when looking at buying anything advertised as SS. There are a lot of fakes.
What used to be 180 to 230$ is now 400 to 500$ good for owners bad for the what used to be the affordable surplus market
Boomers ruin the economies for everything. Especially housing and war collecting.
hi are there still many in russia?
How much would a gun like that be worth?
Would it be less then say... a Yugoslavian Mauser?
Russian Captures are worth more than Yugo Mausers because of their wartime history and German markings. Yugo captured K98ks go for a little less and then post war mad Yugo Mausers like the M48 go for even less.
Melhor carabina K98K clássico.
Shwashtickaz
Paul Collins
Swawstickahs
Given the fact that the Germans had basically chased the Russians all the way back to Stalingrad and would have slaughtered the Russians if it hadn't been for the 2-front war Germany had to fight alongside another army that was helping but also made things more difficult in some ways.
Towards the end of the war the Germans were fighting in the north in Finland, east in Russian/Ukraine, south in Italy, and West in France. In both world wars the Germans picked rather poor allies.
stupid learn hustory 2 frond didnt opened until june 1944 Stalingrad was in 1942 war was almost over. Russians captured Berlin not US .
second stupid Finland surrendered in 1944 to Soviet Union . Germans couldnt fight there at the end of war
I have one but looking at it it doesn't looks like a russian capture but neither from a german ( even if it has one german marking on the side and is dated 1918 ) ... I think it's coming from Mars
What does it say on the top and on the side of the receiver?
"Erfurt 1916" But the gun is weird looking compared to others , i'll try to post link to some photos here but i'm not sure your comment section allows links :)
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I have a early Austria Mauser converted to nato I have the dates on the gun when it was rebarreled I had a fee more question for you if you get a chance.
Sounds like a Steyr made Chilean 1912.
bruh why the Russians didn't copy the kar98k rifle instead of continue producing the garbage rod
1200 to 1500 In Canada Ontario for one Rn
Oof
I predict in 25-35 years from now...most of the (fully refurbished) "destroyed" K98s will be the only German K98 Rifles that people still take out to the range and enjoy...while the forum K98 purist Nazis will be debating on how a "real" K98 is devalued each and every time it's taken out to the range. I now know that my Mitchel's Mausers were all refurbished which makes them non-collector style (bolt is white which is incorrect for instance. I did not know this at the time I bought it; maybe I wouldn't have bought 2 of them when I did. I was in Iraq on a deployment in 2007 when I purchased them over the phone! However, I don't believe like 1/16" - 1/32" of steel was grinded of metal just to re-stamp matching serial numbers off of their Russian Capture Rifles. I've seen no real evidence of that so far other internet hate. When I bought their rifles they had several grades of weapons to pick from which was partly based upon matching numbers or not. At a minimum, my receivers are real WW2 byf mausers that no one, not even the purist will argue with. If my children have children, than my future grandkids will get the opportunity to inherit and live fire shoot a real German Mauser in the future.
Lol how can the soviets deny they didnt supply mausers when they own 90% of them lol
They had over 80% of the captured MP38s, MP40s, and Walther P38s as well.
The Soviet Military even kept them in service for their Federal Army Reserve and Provincial National Guard Units into the late 1960s.
MP40s were commonly issued out to Field Clinic Medics, Cooks, Clerks, Truck Drivers, and Tank Operators.
If They are selling for $800, they are not worth it because that’s the ceiling they are ever going to sell for. I rather buy a Yugo M-48 or a Spanish Mauser.
1000$+ now. Your comment didn’t age too well. Milsurp is ceilingless as newer generations are getting more and more into them with more and more “war” video games. I wouldn’t doubt 2-3k Russian captures in 5 years
Plus m-48s are garbage compared to a true K98
Hello from the year 2020............. I found my K98k at gun show miss-matched numbered, Missing cleaning rod, It's a non-Russian ........ $750 cash
Can't hear you speak louder
Overprized, pitted, rusted, surplus rifles that can blow-up. For the price for one that i priced ($900-$1200) I can buy a beautiful, used, Weatherby MarkV and dont have to worry about it blowing-up in my face...
Only an idiot would pay 1,000 for an RC. The one in the video I got for less that half that.
fil nermand 1944
Ooo 👌 🌹 👌 NOo 🌹1940🌹👍🤚🏼
🌹 🤝🌹 OKiiii🌹🌹
They are worthless as far as i'm concerned.
Then you’re a moron
"Russian capture" means the Russians captured it. Duhhhh...