pzjgr -
The RC shellac and m/m bolt don't detract from owning a proven battle rifle with an on-going history.
Along with import sales to US collectors, I was surprised to learn that the RCs went on to several
post-WWII conflicts.
The Soviet Union exported large numbers of RC K98Ks in the 1960s to revolutionary groups in West and Central
Africa during the wars for independence.
Thousands were sent to the Viet Min and later to the Viet Cong in SE Asia along with Moisins and AKs.
The insurgents in the current East Ukraine conflict have been seen with Russian-supplied RC K98Ks.
Pls see the list of state/non-state users of the post WWII Mausers at:
"https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karabiner_98k"
Although overshadowed by the newer AK-47, the K98K battle record continues.
FWIW
Commisar