Took my new to me 1943 byf K98K apart this weekend, all matching except the serial number on the upper fore stock. Is this a common thing? How much does it detract from the value. Thanks,
Not necessarily common to have a mismatched handguard. Not unheard of either. Yes it will affect value...how much depends on the person buying and the rest of the rifle.
I plan on sending pics as soon as I can. I am also going to talk to my local gun shop where I bought it. The owner told me that if it turned out to not be all matching to let him know. Maybe I can get some $ back. Otherwise it shoots great and everything else seems in order.
It all depends on condition, rarity and the buyer. I paid just north of 3k for a 1938 bSw with only a m/m band spring. Sometimes you can haggle on the price. I didn't, find another 99% matching bSw I said.