I could use the help of the great people on this board.
I have recently come into possession of a model 98 German Mauser - the rifle was built in 1942. All numbers match, 135 stamped all over it (Obendorf) etc. NOW, this is my problem- the stock, simple hardwood, very crude, NO butt plate, and never had one, no hole for a sling, no front band for a sling and never drilled for a cleaning rod, no firing pin tool in the stock either. But, this stock is numbered with the same serial number! Did they re number replacment stocks in the field? The length on the rifle is original, but the stock is shorter than normal. The previous owner is a great american VET, that brought it home from Germany in 1945. He tells me that its exactly how he found it. I can post pics if someone could give me a tip on how to. Your expertise is very much appreciated! Jim
I have recently come into possession of a model 98 German Mauser - the rifle was built in 1942. All numbers match, 135 stamped all over it (Obendorf) etc. NOW, this is my problem- the stock, simple hardwood, very crude, NO butt plate, and never had one, no hole for a sling, no front band for a sling and never drilled for a cleaning rod, no firing pin tool in the stock either. But, this stock is numbered with the same serial number! Did they re number replacment stocks in the field? The length on the rifle is original, but the stock is shorter than normal. The previous owner is a great american VET, that brought it home from Germany in 1945. He tells me that its exactly how he found it. I can post pics if someone could give me a tip on how to. Your expertise is very much appreciated! Jim