snapper rifle ww2

The Karabiner 98k (K98) rifle was the standard service rifle of the German Army during World War II. Renowned for its accuracy and reliability, the K98 played a crucial role in various military campaigns.

Key Features

• Type: Bolt-action rifle.
• Caliber: 7.92×57mm Mauser.
• Length: Approximately 1,100 mm (43.3 inches).
• Weight: About 4.0 kg (8.8 lbs).

Development and History

• Origins: Based on earlier Mauser designs, the K98k was officially adopted in 1935 as a replacement for the K98.
• Production: Over 14 million units were produced during its service life, making it one of the most widely manufactured rifles of the era.

Design and Operation

• Mechanism: Features a smooth bolt-action mechanism known for its reliability and ease of use.
• Sights: Equipped with adjustable iron sights, allowing for effective long-range shooting.
• Construction: Made from high-quality materials, including hardwood stocks and steel components, contributing to its durability.

Impact and Legacy

• Military Use: The K98 was used extensively by German forces in various theaters, known for its effectiveness in both infantry and sniper roles.
• Cultural Significance: Today, the K98 is highly regarded among collectors and military historians, symbolizing German engineering and wartime history.

The K98 rifle remains an iconic representation of WWII-era firearms. Its design, performance, and historical significance continue to fascinate enthusiasts and serve as a testament to the technological advancements of the time. Understanding the K98’s role provides valuable insight into the complexities of military history during World War II.

The K-98 served as the standard rifle for the German Army during World War II.

The Karabiner 98 Kurz, commonly known as the Kar98k or K98k, was a bolt-action rifle that became the standard infantry weapon of the Wehrmacht in 1935. It represented one of the final iterations in the lineage of Mauser military rifles.

This rifle features a bolt-action mechanism and holds five rounds of 7.92x57mm Mauser ammunition, which is loaded into an internal magazine via a stripper clip. The Kar98k was developed from earlier models, particularly the Karabiner 98b, which itself was based on the Mauser Model 1898. The Gewehr 98, or Model 1898, incorporated principles from the Lebel Model 1886 but improved upon it by including a five-round metallic magazine. Due to its shorter length compared to previous carbines, it was designated “Karabiner 98 Kurz,” meaning “Carbine 98 Short.”

The example displayed here is a late-war model. It features a slightly different wood color, and the buttstock lacks the metal donut for the takedown tool.