Israeli Haganah Mauser K98 243 Code In 7.62×51 Bolt Action Rifle 1940, C&R
SOLD FOR: $735
WOA#: WY240407SK030
Make: Mauser-Werke
Model: K98
Serial Number: 3636
Year of Manufacture: 1940
Caliber: 7.62×51
Action Type: Bolt Action Rifle fed by internal mag.
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “7.62 / 243 / 1940” with both German and Israeli proofs The “243” is the model number. The left side of the receiver is marked, “3636 f / Mod.98” with a defaced N@zi eagle and an SS marking. The baseplate and bottom metal are marked, “15 / 6810” With more proof marks. The stock is marked, “7.62” The front of the barrel is marked with the C.A.I. import mark.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed blade on a raised knurled base. The rear sight is a tangent marked out to 20.
Stock Configuration & Condition: There is a two piece wood stock set with a steel endcap/bayonet lug, steel barrel band, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, and a steel buttplate. There is chipping, pressure dents, and scratches throughout. There is a crack forming in the buttstock. The stock rates in about Fair overall condition for a C&R.
Magazine Quantity and Condition: None
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is worn. There is some erosion in the bore with the last few inches being corroded and lacking rifling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 60% of its metal finish. The rifle is pitted in various places, most heavily on the barrel. Most of the rifle has gone to patina. The markings are somewhat clear. The screwheads are very strong, being only lightly used. The action has wear. The leading edges are worn. 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: None
Our Assessment: The Haganah, a Jewish paramilitary organization, obtained Mauser K98 rifles through a variety of means during the tumultuous period leading up to the establishment of the state of Israel. They actively sought to bolster their arsenal by purchasing firearms through clandestine channels on the international arms market, often utilizing intermediaries or sympathetic individuals in Europe and elsewhere. Additionally, the Haganah engaged in extensive smuggling operations to bring weapons into Palestine, employing covert methods to evade British authorities.
These rifles were also acquired through battlefield captures during confrontations with Arab militias and British forces. Haganah fighters seized weapons from defeated enemies or disarmed surrendered opponents, refurbishing and repurposing Mauser K98 rifles into 7.62 NATO for their own use. Moreover, the Haganah resorted to illicit arms production within Palestine, manufacturing copies of existing firearms and modifying captured weapons to suit their needs. These rifles played a crucial role in arming the Haganah and were instrumental in their efforts to defend Jewish communities and secure independence for Israel.
This rifle is one such example of a captured or bought Mauser K98 that ended up in Haganah hands. This is a great collector piece as well as an interesting piece of post WW2 history. -R.E.
